Kerala Rain Crisis: 8 Dead, Opposition Slams CM As 5,792 Move To Relief Camps

Heavy rains in Kerala have claimed eight lives, while the flood situation has started improving in several parts of the state after days of intense rainfall triggered landslides, flooding and widespread disruption. Authorities have shifted 5,792 people to relief camps as rescue and relief operations continued across affected districts.

The Kerala government said teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, police, Coast Guard and local administration were deployed in rain-hit areas. Rescue workers continued efforts in places affected by landslides and flooding, while officials monitored rivers, reservoirs and vulnerable locations.

The worst affected regions included Idukki, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Wayanad, Kozhikode and Kannur districts, where heavy rain caused landslides, waterlogging and road disruptions. Several hilly routes witnessed traffic restrictions after landslides blocked roads.

In Idukki and Kottayam, landslides caused multiple deaths, while rescue teams searched affected areas and cleared debris. Flooding along the Pampa river affected parts of Pathanamthitta, where boats were used to rescue people stranded in waterlogged areas.

Authorities increased the number of relief camps as residents from low lying and landslide-prone areas were moved to safer locations. Officials said the situation had started easing in many districts as rainfall intensity reduced, but people in high risk areas were advised to remain alert.

Dam shutters in several districts were opened earlier to manage rising water levels. Coastal areas also reported sea incursion during the peak of the rain crisis.

Meanwhile, a political controversy erupted over the handling of the situation. CPM leaders criticised Chief Minister V D Satheesan, alleging that he was “setting aside responsibilities” and attending events while Kerala was dealing with severe rain-related damage. The criticism followed his visit to the residence of a Youth League leader in Malappuram during the crisis.

The government defended its response, saying ministers, district collectors and disaster management teams were actively coordinating rescue operations and relief measures.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued red alerts for several districts during the peak rainfall period, warning of extremely heavy showers and increased landslide risks.