Kerala Flood Toll Rises to 21; Six Still Missing as IMD Warns of More Heavy Rain

Thiruvananthapuram: The death toll from the ongoing monsoon fury in Kerala has risen to 21, while six people remain missing, as heavy rain, floods and landslides continue to batter several parts of the state.

The incessant rainfall has triggered overflowing rivers, damaged homes and roads, and displaced thousands of people, prompting authorities to step up rescue and relief operations across the worst-affected districts.

Amid the worsening situation, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan is scheduled to visit the flood-hit areas of Ranni and Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district on Tuesday to assess the damage and review relief and rescue efforts.

The Chief Minister will first reach Aranmula, where he is expected to meet district officials, inspect relief camps and evaluate the ongoing rescue operations before visiting other affected areas.

The visit comes at a time when the government is facing criticism from the Opposition over its handling of the disaster. The Left Opposition has alleged lapses in coordination during the initial stages of the floods and questioned whether quicker action could have reduced the extent of the damage.

Although rainfall eased overnight in the forest catchment areas, the situation in Pathanamthitta remains critical. Flood-like conditions persist in Ranni and Aranmula, with water levels in the Pamba, Achankovil and Kakkattar rivers continuing to remain high.

Authorities have urged people living along riverbanks to stay alert as more rainfall has been forecast in the coming days.

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The district administration has set up 74 relief camps, where more than 3,000 displaced residents have taken shelter. Officials said essential supplies are being provided, while rescue teams remain on standby in vulnerable areas.

As a precautionary measure, the travel ban to Gavi remains in force, and authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel to hilly and flood-prone regions.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over central and northern Kerala, raising concerns over fresh flooding and landslides.

With rivers still swollen and hillsides saturated, the Chief Minister's visit is expected to focus on strengthening disaster response, improving inter-departmental coordination and ensuring timely relief reaches affected families.

With inputs from IANS