Kerala rains: Death toll mounts to 27, red alert issued for 11 dams across state

Mangalore Today News Network

Kochi, Oct 18, 2021: The death toll in incidents related to heavy rains, including landslides and flash floods in Kerala rose to 27 on Monday. Meanwhile, a red alert has been issued for 11 dams across Kerala as water levels have breached the danger mark in several areas.

 

According to government data, 14 deaths were reported in Kottayam district, 10 in Idukki district, and one each in Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur and Kozhikode districts.

A high alert has also been issued in Ernakulam and Idukki districts. The Idduki dam will open gates tomorrow at 11 am due to which water is likely to hit Chalakkudy River. The opening of the dam could affect Ernakulam district as well.

On Monday, the Kaki Ananthodu Dam in Pathanamthitta district, Moozhiyar and Maniyar dams, Peechi, Chimmini, Poomala, Asurankundu, Pathazhakundu and Vazhani dams in Thrissur district were opened. The shutters of Chulliyar Dam, Mangalam, Malampuzha, Kanjirapuzha and Shiruvani dams have been opened in Palakkad district. Idamalayar dam will also be opened tomorrow.

People living in low-lying areas are being evacuated. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has appealed to the people to go to safer places in view of the high alert issued for 11 dams.

The state government has opened 247 camps for affected people across the state, in which 2619 families are staying. There are a total of 9,422 people in these camps.

The CM also directed the state revenue department and the respective LSG bodies to ensure that the relief camps should have adequate facilities such as food, clothing and bedding. He also directed to seek the help of local communities.

Sabarimala pilgrimage put on hold

The pilgrimage to the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala has been put on hold after two shutters of Kakki dam were opened, causing a rise in water levels in Pampa River.

The Devaswom Board asked Sabarimala pilgrims to return immediately.

Meanwhile, the Kerala Public Service Commission has postponed exams scheduled to be held on October 21 and 23. Revised dates will be announced later.

Courtesy:India Today