Southwest Monsoon hits Kerala; Met dept's region-wise forecast today

The southwest monsoon has arrived over Kerala, marking the start of a four-month long rainfall season, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.
The four-month monsoon season from June to September accounts for 75 per cent of rainfall in the country.

Private forecaster, Skymet Weather on May 30 had declared arrival of monsoon, but the IMD had differed, saying conditions were not ripe then for such an announcement.
IMD will on Monday release the second stage forecast for the 2020 monsoon season, which will detail the region-wise forecast and also how the rains will perform in the four months of June, July, August and September. "The southwest monsoon has set in over Kerala today, 1 June 2020,” the IMD said in a statement.
The IMD, in its first stage forecast for 2020 released in April, had said that rain this year is expected to be ‘normal’ at 100 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA).
ALSO READ: Cyclone Nisarga to turn 'severe' by June 3; will impact Mumbai: IMD
The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1961-2010 is 88 cm.
The Met also said that there is 71 per cent probability of the rains being normal to excess while just 29 per cent probability of it being below normal to deficient.
Not only this, the dreaded El Nino phenomenon which is known to negatively impact the performance of the southwest monsoon is not only expected to remain ‘neutral’ during the four-month monsoon season that starts from June but according to some forecasting models might as well turn into a La Nina during the latter half of the four-month season.
The El Nino is defined as an increase of Eastern Tropical Pacific's sea surface temperature (SST) of 0.5 degree centigrade from long term average while its reverse La Nina is defined as a decrease of SST over the same area by -0.5-degree C from long term average.
El Nino plays a big role in the performance of India’s southwest monsoon season that runs from June to September as data studied by private weather forecasting agency Skymet shows that in the last 135 years starting from 1880 to 2014, about 90 per cent of all evolving El Nino years have led to below normal rainfall, while 65 per cent of evolving El Nino years have brought droughts.
If that’s not all, the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), another factor which has a bearing on the performance of south-west monsoon in India is expected to remain neutral during most of the forecasted period.

Flood situation grim in southern, western states, 85 dead; rescue ops on

Kerala and Karnataka were facing a grim situation on Saturday as floods and landslides triggered by torrential rains left 66 people dead, while over four lakh people were evacuated in Maharashtra and 19 lost their lives in rain-related incidents in Gujarat.
Forty-two people died in rain-related incidents with 80 landslides in eight districts of Kerala since August 8, Chief Minister Prinayai Vijayan said.

Many people are still feared trapped under debris following major landslides that hit Kavalappara in Malappuram and Puthumala in Meppadi in Wayanad even as a red alert has been issued in eight districts of Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he might visit his flood-ravaged constituency of Wayanad on August 11.
"Probably going to Kerala tomorrow. I don't want to disturb the rescue missions there. If I go there, I will be there for two days. I have spoken to the prime minister, (Kerala) chief minister, district collector and Congress workers of the state," he told reporters in New Delhi.
One of the four shutters of the Banasurasagar dam, located about 21 km from Kalpetta in Wayanad was opened at 3 pm to discharge excess water and people on the banks of the Kabini river have been asked to be cautious.
Banasurasagar, one of the largest earth dams in India and the second largest of its kind in Asia, impounds the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabini River.
Several trains have been cancelled and flight operations from the Kochi international airport, which had been suspended following inundation, will resume at noon on Sunday, an airport official said.
Across Kerala, 1,24,464 people have been shifted to 1,111 relief camps, including 25,0028 in Kozhikode and 24,990 in Wayanad, officials said.
The flood situation worsened in Karanataka too, where the death toll rose to 24 in rain-related incidents.
Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has termed the natural calamity the "biggest" in 45 years.
The state government pegged the losses caused by rains and floods at Rs 6,000 crore and Yediyurappa revealed that his government has sought Rs 3,000 crore as relief from the Centre.
Landslides were reported near Maranahalli in Sakaleshpur, official sources said.
The entire Pane Mangaluru village in Dakshina Kannada district was inundated by the swollen Netravati river, they said.
Over four lakh people have been moved to safety from the flood-hit parts of Maharashtra so far, including 3.78 lakh from the worst-hit Kolhapur and Sangli districts where the situation showed signs of improvement on Saturday as the water level started receding.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the rescue and relief operations in Sangli on Saturday and interacted with the people. He assured all assistance to them.
Addressing a press conference there later, Fadnavis attributed the flooding to "unprecedented" rainfall during this monsoon, which he said was "more than double" of what was witnessed in 2005, when many parts of the state, including large areas of Mumbai, were submerged.
Three more bodies were recovered in the boat capsize incident that took place on Thursday near Brahmanal village in Palus tehsil of Sangli district during the flood rescue operations.
Nine persons had drowned and as many others had gone missing in the incident.
With the recovery of three more bodies, the death toll in the incident has gone up to 12.
In Gujarat, 19 people have been killed in rain-related incidents.
As of Saturday morning, the state received 77.80 per cent of annual average rainfall, according to data by the MeT Department.
"Seventeen dams are overflowing. Last year, by the end of monsoon, dams had only 56 per cent water.
This year there is 60 per cent water stock in dams already," Chief Minister Vijay Rupani told reporters.

Kerala floods claim 42 lives, 100,000 in relief camps; UAE issues advisory

As Kerala continues to battle the torrential downpour lashing its shores, death toll has risen to 42 in rain related incidents, including flooding and landslides, with over 100,000 people moved to relief camps, officials said on Saturday.
Twenty people have been killed in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, and nine have died in Wayanad in rain related incidents since August 8, officials said quoting reports received till 7 am.
ALSO READ: Rains wreak havoc in Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha: Top 10 updates
In 988 relief camps across the state, 107,699 persons have been shifted. In the worst affected Wayanad, 24,990 persons are in such camps, they said.
Many people are still feared trapped under debris following major landslides that hit the Wayanad and Malappuram districts and the rescue operations, which were suspended Friday night, have restarted as the day broke, the officials said.
Heavy rain is continuing in Wayanad, hampering the rescue efforts, the officials said.
Kerala floods An aerial view of flood-hit areas of Aluva in Kochi, Friday, Aug 9, 2019. Photo: PTI
Over 1,000 people have been rescued from the tea plantation village of Puthumala at Meppadi in Wayanad, which was rocked by landslides as portion of a hill came crashing down on several homes and other structures, including a mosque and a temple.
According to Wayanad Sub Collector N S K Umesh, seven bodies have been recovered so far and over 1,000 people have been moved to safer locations.
"The area is dangerous. What we understand is that 15 people are still missing," he said, adding search operations by Army and National Disaster Response Force personnel are underway.
ALSO READ: These pictures reveal the horrific flood situation in Kerala, Maharashtra
With water levels rising, there is a possibility of opening the shutters of Banasurasagar dam, officials have indicated.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said on Friday that the dam could be opened any time.
The district administration is likely to take a decision in this regard after reviewing the situation this morning.
UAE issues advisory
The UAE has issued a travel advisory to its citizens who are either in Kerala or intend to visit the state to exercise extreme caution.
Kerala floods Swollen water flow following incessant monsoon rainfall causing flood and lanslide, near Meppady Puthumala in Wayanad, Friday, Aug 9, 2019. Photo: PTI
According to the UAE's official news agency, Wam, the advisory urges the citizens to follow instructions issued by the Indian authorities in connection with the natural calamity.
"In a second advisory, the Consulate, based in the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram, has urged the UAE citizens visiting Kerala to register with the diplomatic post so that it can keep track of them and ensure their safety and welfare," Wam said.
The Consulate has asked its nationals to contact its dedicated phone number in case of any emergency.
Train services disrupted
Train services have also been disrupted due to flooding and trees falling on rail tracks.
Southern Railways has cancelled several trains, including the Kannur-Alapuzha Express, on Saturday. Many trains have been partially cancelled with routes cut short to avoid the flooded areas.
ALSO READ: Heavy rains batter parts of Kerala; 22 dead, 22,000 shifted to other places
MangaluruNagercoil Parasuram Express has been cancelled between Mangaluru and Wadakkanchery, MangaluruNagercoil Ernad Express has been cancelled between Mangaluru and Thrisur, ThiruvananthapuramHyderabad Sabari Express has been cancelled between Thiruvananthapuram and Coimbatore.
The KannurThiruvananthapuram Jan Shatabdi Express has been cancelled between Kannur and Shoranur.
For the day, the Met department has issued a red alert for Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur.

The heavy rains have also disrupted Eid holiday plans of thousands of Indian expatriates from Kerala due to closure of the Cochin International Airport till Sunday after floodwaters submerged parts of the runway, the Khaleej Times reported.
The deluge continues in the state even as it grapples to fully recover from the extensive damage caused by the floods of August, 2018 that claimed over 400 lives and left lakhs of people homeless.

Monsoon hits Kerala coast today a week after delay, says IMD

After a delay of a week, monsoon hit the Kerala coast on Saturday, marking the official commencement of the four-month rainfall season in the country.
"Monsoon has made an onset over Kerala today (June 8)," said India Meteorological Department's Director General-designate Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.

Several parts of Kerala have started receiving a good amount of rainfall.
The news will augur well for the country as large parts have been witnessing agriculture distress and water levels in reservoirs in west and south India have dipped to low levels.
Most of rural India depends on the four-month monsoon season, which accounts for 75 per cent of the annual rainfall, due to a lack of adequate alternative source of irrigation. A good monsoon has a direct impact on the economy as agriculture remains the major contributor to India's GDP.
The north Indian plains, central India and parts of south India have been recording temperatures over 45 degrees Celsius. Mercury has soared to over 50 degrees in parts of Rajasthan.
On Thursday, IMD said the arrival of monsoon in Delhi is likely to be delayed by two-three days from its usual onset on June 29. However, Skymet said it may take at least a week longer.
The city is likely to receive normal monsoon. Northwest India too is likely to have normal monsoon.
The IMD declares onset of monsoon over Kerala if after May 10, sixty per cent of the available 14 stations Minicoy, Amini, Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Kollam, Allapuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Thalassery, Kannur, Kudulu and Mangalore report rainfall of 2.5 millimetres or more for two consecutive days.
This is one of the important parameters to declare the onset of monsoon. The other two factors are speed of the westerlies and long-wave radiation.
In 2016, monsoon arrived on the same day.
The IMD has made a forecast of 96 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) which falls on the border of normal and below normal rainfall. The LPA of the season rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1951-2000 is 89 cm.
It has, however, maintained monsoon will be normal for 2019.
The rains in June are likely to be impacted due to El-Nino, although a weak one. It is generally believed that El-Nino, associated with the heating of Pacific waters, has an impact on monsoon.
The delay in monsoon has no co-relation to the overall quantum of the rainfall. However, monsoon will be late in other parts of the country due to its overall delay.
Monsoon arrived in the south Andaman Sea, its first Indian outpost before it reaches the mainland, on May 18.
Last month, the IMD said monsoon will reach Kerala on June 6, a delay of six days from its usual onset. However, conditions were not favourable for its progress.

Monsoon likely to be delayed further, may reach Kerala on June 7: Skymet

The sluggish pace of monsoon has further delayed its onset over Kerala to June 7, private weather forecaster Skymet has said, revising its earlier forecast date.
Skymet previously said the monsoon would reach Kerala, commencing the four-month rainfall season in the country, on June 4 with an error margin of plus or minus two days.

"(But) present weather conditions are indicating monsoon onset would be now around June 7, with an error margin of plus or minus 2 days," Skymet said.
The India Meteorological Department has said the expected day of monsoon arrival over Kerala could happen on June 6, with an error margin of plus or minus four days.
"Dynamics of monsoon keep changing. So far not even one out of the three criteria needed for declaring the onset of monsoon has been met. In fact, it would take some more days for conditions to become favourable for the same," said G P Sharma, president, meteorology and climate change, Skymet Weather.
Sharma pointed out three main reasons for the sluggish pace of monsoon.
There has been a low pressure area off the Somalia coast on the Horn of Africa, which is governing the wind pattern. The system has taken away the moisture and restricting the stream of westerly winds over western Arabian Sea from reaching Kerala, he said.
An anti-cyclone a high pressure system making the air more dense over central Arabian Sea is pushing northerly winds that too are blowing along the west Coast. These winds are not instrumental in giving rains over the coast, Sharma said.
The Somali jet phenomenon too is very important for the onset of monsoon surge, he added.
Somali Jet is the core of strong winds that originate from Kenya, cross equator as a part of cross-equatorial flow while blowing along the Somali coast and finally entering the Indian Ocean Region and moving towards Kerala.
This pattern has not been established so far, Sharma said.
Monsoon made an appearance over the Bay Islands in Andaman and Nicobar on May 18, little early than its normal onset date of May 20.
However, its progress has remained extremely sluggish, Sharma said.
By May 27, the monsoon surge covered some more parts of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and by May 30, it covered a significant portion of Bay of Bengal and Islands including Port Blair.
Usually, by May 25, the Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM) covers both Port Blair as well as Sri Lanka, Skymet said.

Coastal Kerala on alert after report says IS boat set sail from Lanka

Authorities in coastal areas of Kerala have been put on high alert after an intelligence report said 15 Islamic State terrorists had set off from Sri Lanka for the Lakshadweep islands on boats, police sources said.
Coastal police stations and police chiefs have been alerted about suspicious vessels.

The sources said, though, such alerts are "usual practice", this time they have a specific information about the number of terrorists.
The coastal police department said it has been on alert since May 23 after the intelligence input came from Sri Lanka.
"We have been on alert since the Sri Lankan attack. We have alerted fishing vessel owners and others venturing into the sea to be cautious," a coastal police department official told PTI.
After the serial bomb blasts in Sri Lanka, Kerala was put on alert, especially after NIA investigations revealed that IS operatives had planned attacks in the state.
Intelligence agencies believe that a considerable number of Keralities still have ties to the IS.
Sri Lanka witnessed a deadly terror attack on April 21 when eight blasts rocked the island-nation, killing over 250 people.
The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kerala's cultural ethos under attack by Left govt: Modi on Sabarimala issue

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday lashed out at the CPI(M)-led government in Kerala and said the Sabarimala issue had shown to the people of the country how the communist government was trying to disrespect the culture of the state.
He said the opposition parties could abuse him as much as they wanted but should not mislead farmers.
The Prime Minister said the opposition should not create hurdles in opportunities for the youth.
"Sabarimala got the attention of the entire nation. The people of India have seen how the communist government was trying to disrespect the culture of Kerala.
Why is the government undermining the culture of the state? Unfortunately, the cultural ethos of Kerala is under attack. It's been done by a party which is governing the state," Modi told a huge gathering at a Yuva Morcha meet here.
ALSO READ: Opposition coming together for fear of being caught for corruption: Modi
Modi said his government had made efforts to make all kitchens in the country smoke free.
"When we came to power, we made efforts to make all kitchens smoke free. At that time, only 55 per cent of houses had gas connections. But today we have achieved 90 per cent," he said.
The Prime Minister also termed as the 'biggest joke,' the Congress and Left parties talking about democracy.

LIVE: Kerala govt's conduct in Sabarimala issue most shameful, says Modi

Political parties across India are gearing up for the Lok Sabha Election, which is due sometime in April this year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday evening on a brief four-hour visit of Kerala, sounding the poll bugle in the state. Modi launched a scathing attack on the Left government in Kerala on the Sabarimala issue, saying that Communists do not respect India's culture and spirituality. Hitting out at the CPI(M)-led LDF and the Opposition, spearheaded by the UDF in the state, he said both the fronts were two sides of the same coin and accused them of neglecting people of the state. "We know that the Communists do not respect India's culture, history and spirituality," Modi said at a public meeting in Kollam.

Earlier in the day, BSP supremo Mayawati spelt out her party's views on the political situation and the tie-up with Samajwadi Party on the occasion of her 63rd birthday. While addressing the media, she said, "My ideal birthday gift would be SP-BSP's victory in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls."

Meanwhile, the Congress Core Group meeting was to be held at the official residence of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. It was likely to discuss, among other things, Mission 2019 Lok Sabha poll and the situation arising out of the SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh where 80 seats are at stake. Sources said that issues related to a possible alliance, poll strategy, and organisational structure would come up for discussion during the meeting.

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07:16 PM
The people of Kerala have woken. They see BJP as the party that can fulfil their aspirations. We will leave no stone unturned to fulfil their dreams and build a strong, prosperous and inclusive India: PM Modi
07:14 PM
The entire world loves the cashew nuts from Kollam. But UDF and LDF have failed to do anything for cashew nut farmers. They are responsible for the poor condition of the sector. A BJP government in Kerala will give topmost importance to the welfare of the cashew nut industry: PM
07:13 PM
We all have the same blood in our veins. We live together in the same country. And, I will do everything I can for each and every Indian: PM
07:13 PM
All parties talked, but no action (was taken). It was the NDA government that brought a historic increase in MSP for the farmers: PM
07:13 PM
For so many years, those in power took the votes of the farmers. But when it came to doing something substantial, they did nothing: PM Modi
07:10 PM
Our government had the historic opportunity to pass a legislation that gives 10 per cent quota to poor people from the general category. It was passed in Parliament. But do you know which party opposed it tooth and nail? It is the IUML, the second largest partner of the UDF: PM
07:08 PM
Driven by vote-bank politics, the Congress and the Communists support the Triple Talaq practice: PM
07:07 PM
Our stand on the Sabarimala issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words: PM
07:04 PM
UDF must clear their stand on the Sabarimala issue. Your double speak has been exposed: PM Modi
06:54 PM
PM Modi in Kerala: "UDF and LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism and communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same."
06:50 PM
PM in Kollam: "UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same."
06:49 PM
PM Modi in Kollam: "A few days ago, our government had the historic opportunity to pass a legislation that gives 10 per cent quota to poor people from the general category. We believe that every Indian, irrespective of caste, creed or community, deserves equal opportunity."
06:48 PM
PM Modi in Kerala: "Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq. Who is opposing us on this? Communists and the Congress."

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PM Modi in Kerala: Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite.NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq. Who is opposing us on this? Communists and the Congress
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06:42 PM
'Congress has multiple stands on Sabarimala'

PM Modi on Sabarimala issue: "UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands -- they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta. Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words."

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PM Modi: UDF is no better.Congress has multiple stands - they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta.Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words #Sabarimala
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PM in Kerala: The conduct of Kerala LDF govt on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party & govt. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred.
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6:19 PM - Jan 15, 2019
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06:35 PM
LDF govt's conduct on Sabarimala issue 'most shameful': PM

PM in Kerala: "The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred."
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PM in Kerala: The conduct of Kerala LDF govt on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party & govt. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred.
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06:32 PM
Kerala has become hostage to corruption, communalism of LDF, UDF: PM

NDA govt at the Centre is working day and night for the people of Kerala. But, it pains me no end that the Kerala of spirituality and tranquility, the Kerala of harmony and happiness has become hostage to corruption and communalism of two alliances -- LDF and UDF: PM
06:30 PM
Four years back, did anyone think that India could have the world's largest health insurance program?: PM Modi
06:29 PM
Four years back, did anyone think that India could be a global leader in start-ups? In four years, India is home to one of the biggest start-up eco-systems in the world: PM
06:29 PM
Four years back, did anyone think that India could become a mobile manufacturing hub? In four years, the number of mobile manufacturing units has gone up from 2 to over 120: PM
06:25 PM
'India has surpassed China in attracting FDI'

Four years back, did anyone even think that India could attract more FDI than China? In four years, India has surpassed China in attracting FDI: PM
06:23 PM
Kollam Bypass will reduce travel time and decongest traffic in Kollam town. This project is part of our focus to ensure next-generation infrastructure. It will boost ease of living for people of Kerala: PM
06:22 PM
'Fastest ease of doing business ranking improvement in world'

PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: "Four years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In four years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world."
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PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world.
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6:08 PM - Jan 15, 2019
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06:19 PM
Went from 'fragile five' to fastest growing economy in 4 years: PM

PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: "Four years back, did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In four years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy."
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PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy.
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06:16 PM
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PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: The coast-line and culture of Kerala has drawn people from all over the world. Kerala has shown that when people work hard, nothing is impossible. There is both Shakti and Bhakti here.
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06:15 PM
I had also come to Kerala when heavy rains and floods affected the state. The central govt stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our brothers and sisters of Kerala: PM
06:14 PM
Few weeks ago, I had a great interaction with BJP karyakartas in Kollam via Narendra Modi app: PM
06:13 PM
Kerala has shown that when people work hard, nothing is impossible. There is both shakti and bhakti here: PM in a public meeting at Kollam
05:57 PM
Modi's Kerala itinerary

PM Modi arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday evening on a brief four-hour visit of Kerala.

Stepping down from the aircraft that flew him from Raipur, Modi was received by Governor P Sathasivam, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and BJP leaders.

From the airport, Modi took a helicopter to Kollam, about 70 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

He has three programmes, including the inauguration of the Kollam bypass and addressing a meeting of his party activists, both at Kollam.

He will return to the state capital to inaugurate various developmental projects worth Rs 90 crore under the Swadesh Darshan programme.

Around 8 pm, Modi will fly back to Delhi.
05:51 PM
PM Modi will address a public meeting at Kollam, Kerala, shortly
05:47 PM
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The 13 km Kollam bypass project was delayed for 43 years.
In 2015, Modi government took note of this project and completed it in 4 years.
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Car manufacturers witness flat domestic sales due to Kerala floods

The fast-growing domestic car manufacturing industry witnessed a flat performance in the month of August, impacted by floods in Kerala and heavy rainfall in several other states. Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, the top two manufacturers, reported a year-on-year decline of 3.6 per cent and 2.8 per cent, respectively, in domestic sales. Only two companies — Tata Motors and Toyota — managed to buck the trend with double-digit growth.
Based on the numbers sold by top seven players, the passenger vehicle (cars, utility vehicles and vans) industry’s domestic volume of 269,036 units in August was marginally lower compared to the year-ago period. Honda also reported a decline, of 2 per cent, in sales. M&M and Ford remained in the positive territory, though their growth rate was in low single digit.

Maruti Suzuki, which sells every second car in the country, dispatched 145,895 units to dealerships last month, a decline of over 3 per cent compared to last August. Barring its mid-size sedan segment (under which Ciaz is sold), all other segments showed either a decline or just marginal growth. “Sales during the month were adversely affected due to severe floods in Kerala and heavy rain in other parts of the country,” the company said.
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Korean carmaker Hyundai saw a 2.8 per cent drop in domestic sales to 45,801 units. Sports utility vehicle major M&M, the third largest player in the domestic market, saw a 2 per cent growth rate in dispatches. Rajan Wadhera, president (automotive sector) at M&M, said the auto industry remained subdued in August due to some external factors. He hoped the upcoming festive season would improve demand.
Homegrown player Tata Motors posted the highest growth among peers. It dispatched 18,420 units last month, growing 28 per cent YoY. Mayank Pareek, president (passenger vehicles business unit) at Tata Motors, said consumer sentiment was muted due to heavy rain across the country and floods in Kerala. “Despite a challenging month, we have recorded 28 per cent growth. The demand for our new generation vehicles has helped us maintain this consistent month-on-month growth,” he added.
Toyota, the Japanese carmaker, reported growth of about 17 per cent in August by selling 14,100 vehicles in the domestic market. “Despite the impact of the floods, we have been able to overcome the challenge with support of dealers across other regions. Kerala is a very important market for us and we will work hard to get this market back to normalcy,” said N Raja, deputy managing director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor.
Toyota’s Japanese peer Honda reported a 2 per cent drop to 17,020 units last month. The company said it was expecting a strong recovery in demand with the festive season approaching. Ford said it sold 8,042 units last month, with a growth rate of about 3 per cent YoY.
The flat performance of the industry will slow down the 13 per cent growth rate seen in the April-July period of FY19, in the April-August period. But with a pickup in festive sales beginning with the Ganesh Chaturthi on September 13 and extending to Diwali in November, the industry is confident of recovering most of the sales loss.
Shamsher Dewan, vice president & sector head (corporate ratings) at ICRA, said, "The sales data in the passenger vehicle segment indicates some softness, possibly emanating from adverse impact of heavy rain in many parts of the country and floods in Kerala."
Car manufacturers witness flat domestic sales due to Kerala floods

Kerala flood: No aid finalised officially for relief, say UAE officials

No specific amount for financial aid to flood-ravaged Kerala has been finalised officially by the United Arab Emirates and there was no announcement on donation to the state, officials in UAE embassy said in New Delhi on Friday, amid a row over the Centre deciding not to accept any foreign donations for flood relief.
UAE ambassador Ahmed Albannam, without mentioning financial aid, said his government only set up a national emergency committee to provide relief assistance to people affected by flash floods in Kerala.

"The UAE has not officially announced any financial aid for Kerala flood relief. We have not conveyed anything to India on any assistance," said a senior official in the UAE embassy here.
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ALSO READ: Kerala floods LIVE: Postponed Railway recruitment test to be held on Sept 4
He said the UAE may come out with its plan in the next few days to extend assistance to flood victims.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan earlier this week said that the UAE has decided to extend a financial assistance of Rs 7 billion (Rs 700 crore) to Kerala, considering the Gulf nation's special relationship with Kerala.
Around three million Indians live and work in the UAE, out of which 80 per cent are from Kerala, according to official figures.
On August 18, Prime Minister and ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tweeted that his country has formed a committee for extending help to flood-affected people in Kerala.
"UAE and the Indian community will unite to offer relief to those affected. We have formed a committee to start immediately. We urge everyone to contribute generously towards this initiative," he tweeted.
Days after the Kerala CM said the UAE has offered to give Rs 7 billion (Rs 700 crore) to his state, the Ministry of External Affairs made it clear that the Centre will not allow any financial assistance from foreign governments for Kerala in sync with an existing policy.
ALSO READ: Kerala flood less intense than deluge of 1924, so why was damage as great?
The MEA, however, said contributions to the Prime Minister's Relief Fund and the Chief Minister's Relief Fund from NRIs (Non Resident Indians, PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin) and international entities such as foundations will be welcomed.
While refusing foreign aid, the government invoked a policy decision taken by the Manmohan Singh government in 2004 in the aftermath of the Tsunami for not accepting foreign assistance.
ALSO READ: Lessons from Kerala floods: The need to change our development approach
After the MEA said India will not accept donations from foreign nations, an unhappy Vijayan said the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had in 2016 suggested that assistance offered as a goodwill gesture "may" be accepted, asserting that there is no blanket ban on receiving such assistance.
Vijayan said he would approach Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue.

Kerala floods: CM says initial loss at Rs 195 bn, Centre offers Rs 5 bn

Unprecedented flooding triggered by torrential rain in Kerala had inflicted a loss of about Rs 195 billion on the state’s economy, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who took stock of the situation on Saturday.
At least 324 people have been killed in rain and flood-related incidents, while 223,139 sheltered in 1,500 relief camps. The casualty figure was expected to go up, sources said.

Red alert was issued for 11 districts for Saturday. Heavy rainfall was predicted for the day in all districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Kasaragod, said the chief minister.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the intensity of rainfall in the state would reduce in the next two to three days. “Kerala is not expected to receive heavy rainfall from August 20,” said Mritunjay Mohapatra, additional director general, IMD. He said the state received 170 per cent more precipitation than the normal between August 1 and August 17.
The prime minister announced Rs 5 billion as immediate financial assistance, in addition to Rs 1 billion announced by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh last Sunday, after a high-level review meeting in Kochi, followed by an aerial survey of the worst-hit Aluva-Thrissur regions.
Vijayan thanked the Centre for the financial aid, but critics slammed the PM on the social media and compared his expenses on foreign trips and advertising with the relief package for Kerala. The state had sought Rs 20 billion from the Modi government for relief and rehabilitation.
Modi said his government was providing all possible assistance to Kerala, including food grain and medicines. He directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), NTPC, and PGCIL to cater to the basic infrastructure needs of the people in the wake of the floods.
“NDRF teams, companies of the BSF, CISF and RAF are deployed in the state for rescue and relief operations. The Air Force, Army, Navy and Coast Guard are assisting operations in different parts of Kerala. Rescuing those who are trapped remains the topmost priority,” Modi posted on Twitter.
“I salute the people of Kerala for their fighting spirit. I compliment the authorities for their efforts in this adverse situation,” he said in another tweet.
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said the railways was carrying drinking water from various states to Kerala.
Ground situation
While rain slowed down in some parts on Saturday, the situation on the ground continues to be bad due to the shortage of food, drinking water, medicines and fuel. Power cuts and interruptions in telecom communications have added to the victims’ woes. Hospitals are running out of oxygen cylinders and the fear of infections and snakes is also spreading.
Idukki MP Joice George in his SOS voice message said it was an alarming situation in his area. “There is no way to communicate with each other. It is a situation where we can’t even retrieve people’s bodies from the sand. Officials who have come for rescue operations like the NDRF and Navy are not able to reach the places affected because of poor roads. People are literally holding on to their dear life. They don’t have food to eat or clothes to wear,” said George.
Kunjamma Mathew, a 99-year-old from Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district, the epicentre of Kerala floods, said, “It is said a drowning person catches a straw. When the chopper ahead of me could not locate my family of three, I thought of losing even that straw.”
Saji Cherian, member of the legislative assembly from Chengannur, said at least 50,000 people like Kunjamma were struggling for their lives in his constituency.
“The umpteen calls that every journalist on ground itself are getting is a proof of the magnitude of the mishap,” said a local media journalist.
The government has convened a meeting of mobile service providers and oil companies to ensure uninterrupted services, especially to support the rescue operations.
Over 400 petrol pumps in Thrissur, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha districts were submerged, said local reports.
Power supply in many parts of the state was affected as the state electricity board switched off to avoid any accident. The board said transformers would be switched on once water receded and the damage was assessed.
Shortage of medicines was worrying the medical teams of the Government Medical College at Kalamassery, said Dr Peter Vazhayil, superintendent of the medical college.
An official coordinating relief operations in Wayanad listed immediate requirements of various drugs and tablets, sanitary napkins, bleaching powder, among others.
All Kerala Chemists and Druggists Association (AKCDA) General Secretary Thomas Raju said of the around 20,000 pharmacies in Kerala, at least 8,000 might have been affected by the deluge.

Kerala floods LIVE: Modi announces Rs 5 bn as interim relief; toll rises

Unprecedented rain this week in some districts of Kerala have left the state in the worst flood situation of the century. “Kerala is facing its worst flood in 100 years. 80 dams opened, 324 lives lost and 223,139 people are in about 1500+ relief camps,” chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan tweeted on Friday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aerial survey to witness the massive loss and destruction triggered by the torrential rains in Kerala was called off on Saturday due to bad weather, state government officials said.
Modi, who arrived in the state capital on Friday night, flew in to Kochi earlier in the morning.
The Prime Minister was to be accompanied in his survey by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, State Revenue Minister E. Chandrasekheran and other top state officials.
Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been asked to mobilize additional manpower, boats and helicopters to scale up the rescue and relief operations. Food packets and drinking water are also being rushed.
To avoid any inconvenience in travelling, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked scheduled domestic airlines to mount additional flights to Kerala after the closure of the Cochin airport.
"Out of 71 arrivals and 74 departures of scheduled domestic airlines to or from Cochin, 23 arrival and 24 departures have been rescheduled and additional 19 arrival and departures have been mounted to or from Trivandrum, Calicut and Coimbatore airports. Nine foreign carriers operating to Cochin have also rescheduled their flights to or from Trivandrum," read a statement from Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).
ALSO READ: Kerala is facing its worst flood in 100 years; death toll climbs to 324
Scheduled domestic airlines have also been advised to ensure that airfares for flights to or from Trivandrum and Calicut airports in Kerala and nearby airports - Mangalore and Coimbatore - are kept at an optimal level proportionate to sector distance.
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01:40 PM
CM says initial loss at Rs 195 bn

A colossal southwest monsoon in Kerala has resulted in floods and landslides in the state, which is worst in the last 100 years.
01:30 PM
PM conducted aerial survey to get first-hand knowledge about flood. Our helicopter could not go to some places due to inclement weather. He has announced Rs500 crore&all possible help. We thanked him & demanded more helicopters & boats: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan
01:29 PM
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Indian Air Force
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@IAF_MCC
IAF helicopters winched & evacuated the stranded people & children from the roof top and safely dropped at various relief camps.#KeralaFloodRelief
1:27 PM - Aug 18, 2018
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01:28 PM
Tejashwi Yadav
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@yadavtejashwi
Terrible tragedy has struck Kerela. Floods due to torrential rains situation is getting worse. People there are in dire circumstances & we need to help them immediately with relief and medical supplies. Let’s extend whatever help we can in whatever capacity. Let’s save the Kerela
8:10 AM - Aug 18, 2018
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01:24 PM
Indian Air Force
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@IAF_MCC
Precision, steadiness & professionalism of IAF Pilots seen here in saving precious lives during rescue operations in Kerala. #KeralaFloodRelief
1:22 PM - Aug 18, 2018
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01:03 PM
According to the army, 3,627 persons have been rescued till date, including 22 foreign nationals.
01:02 PM
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ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY
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@adgpi
#Update #KeralaFloods2018 Indian Army has made 13 temporary bridges to reconnect 38 remote areas, total of 3627 personnels have been rescued till date, including 22 foreign nationals. #OpMadad #KeralaFloodRelief @PIB_India @SpokespersonMoD @HQ_IDS_India
8:06 AM - Aug 18, 2018
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01:02 PM
Indian Army constructs 13 bridges

The Indian Army, which is actively involved in the rescue and relief efforts in Kerala, constructed 13 bridges in order to establish connection with 38 remote areas in the state, which has been hit severely by floods.
12:58 PM
Rahul urges Modi to declare Kerala floods a national disaster
Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately declare the floods in Kerala as a national disaster.

"Dear PM (Prime Minister), please declare #Kerala floods a National Disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake," Gandhi tweeted.
12:39 PM
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has announced an aid of Rs 100 million for flood-hit Kerala.
12:38 PM
Rahul Gandhi
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@RahulGandhi
Dear PM,
Please declare #Kerala floods a National Disaster without any delay. The lives, livelihood and future of millions of our people is at stake.
11:16 AM - Aug 18, 2018
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12:38 PM
Narendra Modi
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@narendramodi
I salute the people of Kerala for their fighting spirit. I compliment the authorities for their efforts in this adverse situation.
I would also like to appreciate the wide support and solidarity from people across India towards Kerala during this unprecedented situation.
12:29 PM - Aug 18, 2018
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12:37 PM
Narendra Modi
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@narendramodi
NDRF teams, companies of BSF, CISF and RAF are deployed in the state for rescue and relief operations.
The Air Force, Army, Navy and Coast Guard are assisting operations in different parts of Kerala.
Rescuing those who are trapped remains the topmost priority.
12:27 PM - Aug 18, 2018
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12:37 PM
Narendra Modi
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The Central Government is ensuring that the benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, MGNREGA, various social security schemes, Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture reach those affected on a priority basis in Kerala.
12:26 PM - Aug 18, 2018
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12:37 PM
Insurance companies have been directed to hold special camps for assessment and timely release of compensation to the affected families and beneficiaries under social security schemes. Directions have also been issued for early clearance of claims under the Fasal Bima Yojna for farmers.
11:59 AM
Achankovil river near Alappuzha's Kollakadavu village is overflowing following heavy rainfall in the area. Shaukat, a villager says,"The area has been completely flooded. I have lost almost everything I had. The water level is increasing with every passing hour."

11:57 AM
The loss due to the heavy monsoon, flood and landslides across 13 districts in Kerala is pegged at around Rs 195.12 billion, as per the preliminary estimates and the number is expected to increase as the situation is going from bad to worse, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
To read more click HERE
11:55 AM
PM Modi announces Rs 5 billion as temporary relief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is Kerala currently, announced Rs 5 billion as temporary relief, while the State has sought for Rs 20 billion.
11:07 AM
ANI
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@ANI
#WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducts an aerial survey of flood affected areas. PM has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF). #KeralaFloods
10:58 AM - Aug 18, 2018
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11:06 AM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducts an aerial survey of flood affected areas. PM has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 200,000 per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF)
10:48 AM
SBI has donated Rs 20 million to Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) and announced waiver of fees and charges on services offered by the bank in Kerala. #KeralaFloods
10:42 AM
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CMO Kerala
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@CMOKerala
Alert: People in the low lying areas along Chalakudy river and its tributaries are requested to move to higher locations as a precautionary measure. All stranded people are being attended by the forces in maximum capacity. #KeralaFloods2018
5:19 PM - Aug 16, 2018
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10:41 AM
The chief minister's office has also released helpline numbers.

Kasargod: 9446601700
Kannur: 91-944-668-2300
Kozhikode: 91-944-653-8900
Wayanad: 91-807-840-9770
Malappuram: 91-938-346-3212
Malappuram: 91-938-346-4212
Thrissur: 91-944-707-4424
Thrissur: 91-487-236-3424
Palakkad: 91-830-180-3282
Ernakulam: 91-790-220-0400
Ernakulam: 91-790-220-0300
Alappuzha: 91-477-223-8630
Alappuzha: 91-949-500-3630
Alappuzha: 91-949-500-3640
Idukki: 91-906-156-6111
Idukki: 91-938-346-3036
Kottayam: 91-944-656-2236
Kottayam: 91-944-656-2236
Pathanamthitta: 91-807-880-8915
Kollam: 91-944-767-7800
Thiruvananthapuram: 91-949-771-1281
10:22 AM
Here's how you can help those affected by the Kerala floods:

Donations can be made through cheques or demand drafts (DD), or internet banking. Address for cheques: The Principal Secretary (Finance) Treasurer, Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund, Secretariat, Thiruvananthapuram – 1;

To contribute online -

Account number: 67319948232
Bank: State Bank of India
Branch: City branch, Thiruvananthapuram
IFS Code: SBIN0070028
PAN: AAAGD0584M
Name of Donee: CMDRF
10:21 AM
Here's how you can help those affected by the Kerala floods:

Contribute through the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF)

The chief minister's office released a letter appealing for help to rebuild the lives of people affected by the floods in Kerala. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, "We have an important task before us, the task of bringing life back to normalcy."
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CMO Kerala
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@CMOKerala
Here's how you can help those affected by the unprecedented floods in Kerala. Now you can make donations online to Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund through the site, https://donation.cmdrf.kerala.gov.in/ #KeralaFloods #StandWithKerala.
7:16 PM - Aug 14, 2018
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10:19 AM
UAE to provide aid to flood-hit Kerala

To be chaired by the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), the national emergency committee will include representatives from the UAE's humanitarian organisations, according to Gulf News.
10:06 AM
State highway to Idukki city from Kumily is blocked due to landslide, clearance operation underway.

09:40 AM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aerial survey to witness the massive loss and destruction triggered by the torrential rains in Kerala was called off on Saturday due to bad weather, state government officials said.
09:26 AM

08:58 AM
Rains subsided on Saturday morning resulting in the water level in Idukki and parts of Ernakulam and Thrissur districts coming down.

LIVE: Kerala floods worst in 100 years; 324 lives lost, tweets Kerala CM

Unprecedented rains continue to wreak havoc across Kerala, and have brought the coastal state to a standstill. "As many as 324 people have lost their lives due to rains, floods and landslides," tweeted chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
According to the Home Ministry's National Emergency Response Centre (NERC), 247 people have died in Kerala, while 2,11,000 people in 14 districts have been badly hit by the rains and floods, and over 32,500 hectares of crops damaged.
Personnel of the three services, besides the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) resumed the gigantic task of evacuating people stranded on rooftops and highlands where hills came crashing down blocking roads and cutting them off the rest of the world, and those marooned in villages that have turned into islands.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to reach the state Friday evening and is likely to undertake an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas on Saturday.
Here are the latest updates and developments on the Kerala flood situation:
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07:15 PM
Southern Railway dispatched 7 BRN wagons with syntax tank carrying 2.8 lakh litre drinking water from Tamil Nadu's Erode at 4 pm. 15 BRN flat wagons with Syntax water tanks being moved from Chennai to Erode. Water will be dispatched to Kerala.

07:03 PM
1,300 life jackets, 571 lifebuoys, 1,000 raincoats, 1,300 gumboots, 1,200 ready-to-eat meal, 1,500 food packets, 25 motorised boats, 9 non-motorised boats provided by the Defence Ministry for rescue and relief operations in #KeralaFloods
06:59 PM
ANI
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@ANI
#WATCH: Boats being used to rescue people in a flood-hit market in Alappuzha city. #KeralaFloods
6:51 PM - Aug 17, 2018
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06:37 PM
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ANI
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@ANI
Alappuzha: Flooding continues in several areas affecting normal life across the city. #KeralaFloods
6:31 PM - Aug 17, 2018
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06:28 PM
06:27 PM
Kochi: Navy rescue operations underway in flood-affected areas. Captain PE Prasad, Executive Officer, INS Venduruthy, says,"315 people had taken shelter at Navy Camps, of which 53 have moved back to their relatives' places in and around Kochi. #KeralaFloods
06:03 PM
CMO Kerala
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@CMOKerala
Kerala is facing its worst flood in 100 years. 80 dams opened, 324 lives lost and 223139 people are in about 1500+ relief camps. Your help can rebuild the lives of the affected. Donate to https://donation.cmdrf.kerala.gov.in #StandWithKerala.
5:27 PM - Aug 17, 2018
Donation Portal : Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF)
Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) is an emergency assistance release mechanism granting immediate relief to families and individuals distressed by calamity, loss of life due to accidents...
donation.cmdrf.kerala.gov.in
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06:02 PM
CMO Kerala
✔
@CMOKerala
We are receiving multiple repetitive rescue requests in CMO. Ensure that you add date and time along with exact location, any significant landmark, district, number of stranded people and contact number of victim in all new requests. #KeralaSOS
12:09 PM - Aug 17, 2018
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06:02 PM
Ashwin Ravichandran
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@ashwinravi99
Some heart wrenching stuff coming out from the #KeralaFloods , nature has unleashed it's fury at full tilt. My time line will be all over with helpline and flood relief details, please do not mind and try and see if you can contribute in any small way.
5:06 PM - Aug 17, 2018
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06:00 PM
Insurers asked to expeditiously settle claims in flood-hit Kerala

Irdai has asked all insurance companies to set up special camps and make immediate payments against insurance claims.
05:53 PM
Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has announced Rs 100 million worth of immediate relief for flood-hit Kerala, ANI reported. Rs 50 million is being transferred from CM's relief fund & remaining Rs 50 million will be in form of ready-to-eat food material & other supplies.
05:33 PM
Streets flooded in Ernakulam's Velloorkunnam following heavy and incessant rainfall. 167 people have died till now in Kerala floods

05:30 PM
An aerial view shows partially submerged houses at a flooded area in the southern state of Kerala. Photo: Reuters

05:28 PM
Roads being cleared in Kerala's Kumily after traffic movement was affected due to landslides caused by heavy rainfall.

Kerala rains: Kochi Airport closed; govt cancels official Onam celebrations

With heavy rains and landslides pounding Kerala for more than a week now, the state government has cancelled the official Onam celebrations for this year, which was expected to take place from Wednesday to Monday. The Mullaiperiuar dam was opened earlier on Wednesday, and more water is being released to the rivers resulting in further flood. As a precautionary measure, Kochi Airport has suspended operations till 2 pm on Wednesday.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his Independence Day speech, said the state was facing its worst-ever disaster. According to reports, the death toll has increased to around 44, after five people died on Wednesday in building collapse due to rain in different cities.

With the Mullaiperiyar dam releasing water from around 2.30 am on Wednesday, the water inflow in Idukki dam is also rising. More water is being released. Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) announced that the water level in Mullaiperiyar dam, the upper dam of Idukki dam, is increasing, and was at a 141.2 feet level on Wednesday morning. The water level may rise further if the rain continues. . Once this water reaches Idukki dam, it may have to release more water. Meanwhile, the government has taken steps to shift people living in the catchment area of Periyar river in advance, to avoid further loss of lives.
The dams in Thiruvananthapuram have also been opened in the last 24 hours, which has increased the water level in the state capital, sources said.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Thiruvananthapuram, out of the 14 districts in the state, 12 are expected to receive heavy-to-very-heavy rainfall, which means red alert, while Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam has an orange alert, indicating lower-intensity heavy-to-very-heavy rainfall forecast.
Rail services from Thiruvananthapuram has also been affected whie Kochi Airport has stopped all operations from 6.30 am to 2 pm on Wednesday due to flood level in and around the airport. Flights have been deviated to the nearby airports.
The rain receded in many districts for a short while on Monday, but received more rainfall on Tuesday. According to reports, 33 dams in the state are open as of now. Between June 1 and August 14, the state has received cumulatively 23 per cent more rain, reaching an actual rainfall of 1959.11 mm compared to the normal rainfalls of 1591.9 mm expected.
ALSO READ: Kerala govt declares red alert in 7 districts as IMD expects heavy rainfall
Meanwhile, taking the heavy to very heavy rainfall received in the catchments of Petchiparai and Perunjanai dams of Kanyakumari district into account, a total of 30,000 cusecs water is being released from Wednesday morning. More than 100 families have been evacuated and people in low-lying areas were advised to move to safety.
"Between 9th and 12th of this month, 37 lives have been lost and 5 persons are still missing. So far, 186 lives have been lost in the heavy rainfalls and floods. There had been 211 landslides. Tens of thousands are in the relief camps," Vijayan said on social media. The state has requested around Rs 12 billion from the central government for immediate relief and rehabilitation.
The state has also sought financial support from people across the world after around 186 people died and tens and thousands were affected during the ongoing monsoon season till Tuesday. At least four people are missing. Around 20,000 houses have been completely destroyed, the state government announced on Tuesday. A total of 439 relief camps were opened and nearly 10,000 km of state PWD roads damaged. The preliminary loss is around Rs 83.16 billion.
The central government has allowed Rs 1 billion as immediate relief and various neighbouring states have also extended financial support.
Various corporates and multinational firms have also extended support. TVS Motor Company has contributed Rs 10 million to the Kerala Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF), in lieu of the distressing flood situation in Kerala. Mercedes-Benz India on Wednesday announced its contribution as a responsible corporate citizen, to support the relief activities currently undertaken by the authorities in the state. Mercedes-Benz announced a voluntary contribution of Rs 2.5 million towards the Chief Minister’s National Relief Fund. The company has also announced customer service support to its brand vehicles which were damaged in the inundations in the state.

Monsoon to hit Kerala coast on May 29, three days ahead of schedule

Southwest monsoon, the lifeline for millions of farmers across the country, is expected to hit Kerala coast on May 29, three days ahead of normal arrival date, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Friday.
The forecast is with a model error of plus and minus four days.
The normal onset date of southwest monsoon is June 1 over the Kerala coast.
Thereafter, it covers the entire country in next 45 days.
The onset marks the start of the rainy season over the region and as the monsoon progresses northward, it provides relief from scorching summer temperatures experienced over the areas.
However, a timely onset of monsoon over Kerala does not guarantee its normal progress over other parts of the country and also overall performance of the rains, the IMD clarified.
“The southwest monsoon advances over the Andaman Sea normally around May 20 with a standard deviation of about one week. Conditions are likely to become favourable for the advance of southwest monsoon into some parts of the Andaman Sea and the southeast Bay of Bengal around May 23,” the IMD said.
Monsoon to hit Kerala coast on May 29, three days ahead of schedule
The met department in its first forecast of monsoon for 2018 released last month predicted that monsoon is expected to be ‘normal’, brightening chances of recovery in farm sector, which has seen fluctuating growth rates in the first four years.
IMD said that rainfall in June to September period is expected to be at 97 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) with model error of plus and minus 5 per cent.

ALSO READ: Monsoon cheer: IMD forecast of well-distributed rainfall is a big relief
LPA is the average rainfall across the country from 1951-2000 estimated to be 89 centimeters.
IMD said there is 42 per cent chance of rainfall this year to be normal while 30 per cent probability of it being below normal.
Earlier, private weather forecasting agency Skymet also said that monsoon 2018 is expected to be ‘normal’.
Skymet said that rains this year could be 100 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) with a model error of plus and minus 5 per cent.
Skymet also said that East and North-East India along with parts of Southern India might get slightly ‘below normal’ rains in 2018, while the agriculturally crucial regions of North and Central India are expected to get ‘normal’ to ‘excess’ rains in 2018.
IMD would come out with region-wise forecast in June along with its second update.