Kerala CM directs ministers to camp in rain-hit districts as relief ops step up
Thiruvananthapuram, August 1: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Saturday reviewed the rain-related situation in the state in consultation with ministers and district collectors, and directed ministers in charge of districts to camp in their respective areas to coordinate relief operations.
Transport Minister C.P. John will be stationed in Thiruvananthapuram, Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunadh in Pathanamthitta, Water Resources Minister Mons Joseph in Kottayam, and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob in Idukki. Revenue Minister A.P. Anilkumar will oversee state-level coordination of relief work.
The Chief Minister also spoke to MLAs from rain-affected areas over the phone and instructed the district collectors of Idukki, Pathanamthitta, and Kottayam to remain prepared to handle any emergency.
Regarding the two fishermen who went missing off Muthalappozhy in Thiruvananthapuram, a Coast Guard vessel is searching the waters, and a marine enforcement team is also camping at the site, the Chief Minister said.
The state has been experiencing heavy monsoon rains, leading to waterlogging and disruptions in several districts. Authorities have been on high alert, with disaster response teams and necessary equipment deployed to vulnerable areas.
The move to place ministers on the ground is aimed at ensuring swift decision-making and effective delivery of relief materials to affected families. The Chief Minister is expected to hold further review meetings as the weather situation evolves.
