Kerala Floods: Kozhikode Families Evacuated as Rivers Swell After Heavy Rain
Kozhikode, August 1: Several families were moved to safer locations in rural areas of Kozhikode district on Saturday after heavy rain caused river waters to rise sharply. The Engapuzha river overflowed its banks, inundating the town of Engapuzha and surrounding villages, prompting the District Disaster Management Authority to begin immediate evacuation operations.
More than 30 houses and several shops were affected when the river swelled following continuous rainfall. The water also disrupted traffic on the Kozhikode-Wayanad road passing through Engapuzha, forcing authorities to divert vehicles through alternate rural routes. Local volunteers assisted police in managing traffic and took part in the initial rescue and relief work.
Traders in the area reported significant losses as floodwater entered their establishments. While a few shopkeepers managed to move valuable goods to higher ground, many could not do so before water levels rose. Revenue Department officials said additional families might need to be evacuated as the Iruvazhinji river continued to rise.
Flooding was also reported from Kodenchery and Koodaranhi, where rescue squads have been asked to remain on alert. A minor landslip occurred in the interior part of Kodencheri panchayat, but no casualties were reported.
In light of the adverse weather, organisers of the Malabar River Festival suspended all kayaking events scheduled for Saturday. They stated that the kayaking championship would resume only after clearance from the Disaster Management Authority.
The heavy rainfall also affected several houses near Kommeri in Kozhikode city, particularly those located close to wetland areas. Revenue officials visited some of the affected localities to assess the situation and review safety measures.
In response to the continuous downpour, the District Disaster Management Authority urged residents in landslip-prone upland areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with evacuation and relocation efforts. Several families in Puthuppadi village were relocated with the support of the gram panchayat authorities after the area was identified as vulnerable.
The authorities advised motorists to avoid unnecessary travel through the Thamarassery Ghat Pass until weather conditions improve. Revenue department officials said taluk-level helplines would remain available 24x7 for citizens to request emergency services.
The flooding comes as the southwest monsoon remains active over Kerala, with rivers and streams in the district running high. The administration has stepped up monitoring and coordination with local bodies, and officials say the priority is to prevent any loss of life.
