Relief and rescue operations in full swing in Kerala

In Kerala, the death toll in rain-related incidents rose to 35 as more bodies were recovered. Incessant rains that lashed across the State, over the last few days has showed a gradual declining trend as depression in Arabian sea weakened. The rescue operations are continuing in full swing in the worst-hit districts of Kottayam, Idukki and Pathanamthitta. Armed forces, Police personnel, NDRF teams are coordinating the rescue missions. Over 8000 people are shifted to various relief camps across the State.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan held an emergency meeting and took stock of the situation on Monday. Expert panel has been appointed to decide on matters relating to raising the shutters of various dams. Opening of colleges had been postponed to October 25. Meanwhile, MeT Department forecasts that chances to heavy rains are less for Monday and Tuesday and no alerts has been declared so far. But from Wednesday the showers are likely to intensify.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and discussed the situation in the wake of heavy rain and landslide in the State. In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister said, it is saddening that some people have lost their lives due to heavy rain and landslides in Kerala. He expressed condolence to the bereaved families. Meanwhile, the water level in the Idukki reservoir, one of the highest arch dams in Asia, has risen to 2,396.96 feet on Monday. An orange alert has been sounded.