Ernakulam steps up emergency measures after red alert

Ernakulam district has ramped up emergency measures following a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. District authorities have been directed to intensify precautionary actions in vulnerable areas, particularly the eastern regions that have faced persistent flooding risks.

A meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority, led by District Collector G. Priyanka, reviewed the rain situation and directed tahsildars and village officers to stay vigilant as rain continued in neighboring Idukki and Muvattupuzha districts. Approximately 202 individuals from 64 families are currently residing in nine relief camps, comprising two in Kothamangalam taluk, three in Kunnathunad, and four in Muvattupuzha, with 14 seniors among them.

Additional camps may be established in Muvattupuzha if necessary, as the river's water level remains high due to ongoing rains and overflow from the Malankara dam. No significant rain-related incidents were reported in Ernakulam on Tuesday, despite intensified rainfall in the city and suburbs. All tourist spots have been closed, boat services halted, and visits to rivers, reservoirs, and beaches prohibited, including taking selfies.

Mining activities are suspended for three days, with night-time travel in hilly regions restricted to emergencies only. Control rooms at the collectorate and taluk offices will operate continuously, and four-member squads, including deputy tahsildars, have been formed. Emergency services, police, and the Motor Vehicles department are on high alert.

Educational institutions will close on Wednesday, August 5, due to the heavy rainfall. As of August 1, eight houses have been damaged, seven partially and one completely destroyed, with one commercial shop in Aluva taluk also sustaining partial damage. All schools remain closed on Wednesday.