Kathmandu— The death toll in Kerala due to heavy rains has risen to 15, with seven people still missing. Chief Minister V D Satheesan announced Rs 10,000 as funeral expenses for the deceased and directed the Agriculture Department to revise compensation for agricultural damage. About 165 hectares of farmland have been affected, impacting over 3,596 farmers.

Disaster Response Efforts

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and security forces are deployed across Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and other affected areas. Two NDRF teams have been stationed in Kottayam, with additional support sought from Arakkonam if needed. Helicopters have arrived to assist with rescue operations and food distribution.

Government Measures

Chief Minister Satheesan refuted claims that dam releases were causing flash floods, emphasizing that water levels in major reservoirs are below capacity. He also announced financial assistance for those returning home from relief camps and directed the Agriculture Department to propose revised compensation rates for crop damage.

The government has taken steps to monitor areas vulnerable to sea erosion and is planning to increase compensation for farmers who have suffered losses.

Infrastructure Recovery

State Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph reported that 92% of damaged electricity connections have been restored, with only 35,118 remaining to be fixed. Pathanamthitta and Kannur districts experienced the most severe damage, but recovery efforts are progressing rapidly.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.