Prime Minster Narendra Modi today asked the Defence Ministry to further step up relief and rescue operations across Kerala which is facing a severe flood situation.


He also spoke with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan again this morning. "We discussed the flood situation in the state. Have asked Defence Ministry to further step up the rescue and relief operations across the state. Praying for the safety and well-being of the people of Kerala," the PM tweeted.


Last evening, Modi had told Vijayan that the Centre stood firmly behind Kerala and was ready to provide any assistance. Rains in the state have claimed 67 lives, officials said, adding that a red alert had been sounded in 12 of the 14 districts.


In what is being touted as the state's worst flood since 1924, the flooding and landslide have resulted in heavy loss of life and property. For the first time in the history of the state, it has opened 35 of its 39 dams due to rising water levels.


On Wednesday morning, Indian Meteorological Department issued a red alert for eight districts of the state. It has predicted heavy to very heavy rains at most places in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasargode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Idukki and Ernakulam Districts until Thursday.


Earlier today, four teams of National Disaster Rescue Force were airlifted from Pune to Kerala for aiding in rescue operations. The teams have been brought in with full-wave rectified (FWR) equipment and communication equipment. - PTI


IMAGE: Rescue officials assist villagers out of a flooded area near Kochi. Photograph: PTI Photo