Kochi, Aug 15 : The Navy on Wednesday rescued more than 80 persons as the flood situation worsened in Kerala again, leaving a fresh trail of death and destruction.

As part of its 'Operation Madad', the Southern Naval Command deployed 21 rescue and diving teams with Gemini boats as the situation deteriorated across the southern state where 19 people lost their lives since Tuesday evening due to the incessant downpour, forcing authorities to issue a red alert.

"A total of four teams went out (on Wednesday) to augment those already deployed. More than 81 persons were rescued, many of whom were also provided food and shelter by setting up a rescue camp," an Indian Navy spokesperson said.

Flooding was reported near Varapuzha residential area, Aluva and hence a primary school has been converted into a relief camp by the Naval Armament Depot (NAD) wherein relocation of rescued persons was in progress.

Meals and lodging for survivors have been arranged from pooled resources of the Defence Services Corps (DSC), NAD and the civil administration. A clinic has also been set up with civil assistance for providing first aid to the rescued.

Three columns of relief teams have been put on standby at a naval base in Kochi to meet any other contingency.

Also, naval hospital INHS Sanjivani is on a standby with medical packages while INS Venduruthy is standing by for setting up community kitchens.

Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.



Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar shared heartfelt messages on X in celebration of the 69th Kannada Rajyotsava, highlighting the importance of Karnataka’s heritage, language, and culture.

CM Siddaramaiah emphasised that Kannada Rajyotsava is a day for committing to the preservation and growth of Karnataka’s identity, encompassing its people, language, culture, land, and water. He wished all Kannadigas a happy Kannada Rajyotsava, expressing the hope that love and care for Kannada would become a daily celebration. “Best wishes to all Kannadigas on Kannada Rajyotsava. ‘Sirigannadam Gelge, Sirigannadam Balge,’” he shared.

DCM DK Shivakumar celebrated digitally by taking a selfie with the ‘Kannada Filter’ on Instagram, encouraging others to join in. He nominated Speaker U.T. Khader to continue this digital campaign, marking it as a small step to spread Kannada’s glory worldwide. “May the lamp of Kannada shine forever, lighting the way for everyone,” he added.