Kerala rain fury: 15 dead, 7 missing as relief camps shelter thousands

Floods and landslides in Kerala have claimed 15 lives and left seven others missing, according to Chief Minister VD Satheesan. As of now, 316 relief camps are operational across the state, accommodating 11,018 displaced individuals. Kottayam reported three deaths, Ernakulam two, and one each in Idukki, Muvattupuzha, Malappuram, Kollam, Kannur, and Kozhikode.

Seven people remain missing - two from Kollam, two from Kannur, and one each from Malappuram, Idukki, and Muvattupuzha. The Kerala government announced Rs 10,000 as funeral assistance for the deceased's families, and additional Rs 10,000 for those returning from flooded relief camps. The Agriculture Department was directed to revise crop compensation, as 165 hectares of agricultural land have been damaged.

The India Meteorological Department issued rain alerts for all 14 districts, with orange alerts for eight districts. Authorities advised residents to stay alert due to rising river levels and gusty winds. Educational institutions in 12 districts were declared holiday, and fishing remains banned along the coasts due to rough sea conditions.

If water levels continue to rise, the Moozhiyar Dam may be opened in Pathanamthitta district. The government remains ready to handle emergencies, urging people to follow advisories strictly and providing financial support for those affected.