Rain lashes Kerala: Navy on high alert, launches Operation Madad

The Southern Naval Command is on high alert to face any contingency following a request from the Kerala disaster management officials in view of heavy rains in the state in the past few days. 

The Navy received a request from the Kerala Disaster Management Authority (KDMA) for possible requirement of immediate assistance, a defence release said on Monday. 

Rain fury: 3 killed as late monsoon burst wreaks havoc in Kerala [Video]

Based on the request, Operation Madad (Op-Madad) has been executed by the Southern Naval Command, particularly since Kerala is expected to encounter wet weather for the next few days, the release added. As part of Op-Madad, Relief Operation Center (ROC) had been setup at Joint Operations Center (JOC) at Naval Base in Kochi. 

Personnel, equipment and flood relief material, including boats and diving teams, have been kept on standby to meet any emergent requirement at short notice. Further, ships and aircraft were also at short notice for any assistance to the civil populace and fishermen. 

Torrential rain batters Kerala, dam shutters opened, holiday declared in eight districts

Meanwhile, the Navy assisted 10 fishermen onboard stranded in the sea off Thrissur on Monday, following engine failure and flooding caused by ingress of water. 

Torrential rains have wreaked havoc across the state in the last few days, also causing three deaths, though there was a general respite from heavy showers on Tuesday.

However, some high range areas and interior parts of the state continues to receive heavy rains, causing uprooting of trees and traffic snarls on ghat roads. 

According to Indian Meteorological Department office, southwest monsoon has been vigorous over the state and rain occurred at most places in union territory Lakshadweep. 

• Kerala
• Heavy rains
• Operation Madad
• Indian Navy