Kerala floods: At least 26 people dead

Kerala floods: At least 26 people dead

Heavy rains in southern India have flooded rivers, cut off towns and villages and killed at least 26 people.

The dead included five children. It is feared the death toll could rise further as more people go missing.

Many houses have been blown up in Kottayam district of Kerala and people are trapped.

Kottayam and Idukki are the two worst affected districts. Heavy rains for several days have caused severe landslides. The swollen rivers washed away the bridges connecting many small villages.

Authorities said military helicopters were being used to fly supplies and personnel to areas where people were stranded.

Thousands of people have been evacuated and 184 relief camps have been set up across the state, providing food, shelter and clothing to 8,000 people.

The government has also announced financial assistance for those who have lost their homes and crops.

Various dams in the state have decided to leave the decision on whether to open to an expert panel.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the committee would decide which dams should be opened.

"The district collectors will be notified a few hours before the dams open, so there will be enough time for locals to leave," his office said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department has forecast four more days of isolated rains in the state.

#HADROps #KeralaFloods

Indian Air Force medium lift helicopters have been inducted for #floodrelief efforts in districts of #Kerala inundated due to heavy rains.#HarKaamDeshKeNaam pic.twitter.com/ZcwZRKyYZR
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 17, 2021