Operation Madad: 55 people evacuated from flood-hit areas in Kerala; toll rises to 28

The Indian Navy under its Operation Madad on Friday evacuated over 55 people from flood-hit areas in Kerala even as the death toll rose to 28.

Following heavy rains that caused massive destruction in the state, the Southern Naval Command Navy launched ‘Operation Madad’ on Saturday to assist the state government.

Two teams with Gemini boats began rescue operations at Kalpetta, Wayanad and at Panmarum, 13 km south of Mananthavady, and evacuated 55 stranded people till 12 noon on Friday, according to a defence statement.

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Another team was airlifted by a Seaking Helicopter to Kalpetta with all gear and two electric generators, which was requested by Wayanad District Collector.

Three additional diving teams have been sent to Aluva in coordination with the Deputy Collector for utilisation by the District Collector in affected areas to augment the rescue, the release stated.

One of the teams is likely to be deployed at Idukki, apart from the two diving teams on standby at Aluva for relief operations since Thursday in anticipation of flooding expected in Ernakulam and Aluva, the defence said in the release.

One contingent of 50 men, fully equipped for any kind of assistance, has been positioned at Naval Armament Depot, Aluva. The Naval Hospital, INHS Sanjivani, is also ready to render medical aid as required and all preparations towards setting up community kitchen by naval personnel from INS Venduruthy have been made in case the need arises.

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Naval helicopters are also being deployed to ferry divers, power tools, axes and relief material to flooded areas to augment ongoing relief operations, the release added.