Kozhikode on Alert: Police Deploy Teams, Issue Safety Guidelines Amid Heavy Rains

Amid heavy rainfall lashing the district, the Kozhikode City police have activated disaster management measures and intensified surveillance to safeguard public safety. Authorities have issued alerts over potential landslides, flooding, and dam releases, urging residents to remain cautious and follow official directives.

A special team, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Padam Singh and comprising Additional Superintendents of Police, Assistant Commissioners of Police, Inspectors, and Sub-Inspectors, has been appointed for emergency duty. City Police Chief A.P. Shoukathali will coordinate the team’s operations, according to an official statement.

Coordination has been strengthened with the Fire and Rescue Services, the Revenue Department, the District Disaster Management Authority, the Health Department, local self-government bodies, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to ensure a swift and effective response to any crisis.

Police patrolling and surveillance have been stepped up in low-lying areas, riverbanks, waterlogged roads, bridges, beaches, tourist spots, and areas prone to landslides. The public has been strongly advised against entering hazardous zones, including flooded streets and unstable terrain.

In view of the heavy downpour, authorities have urged citizens to strictly follow safety guidelines. Driving through waterlogged roads or fast-flowing rivers is strictly prohibited. People must not cross or stand near bridges, canals, or culverts. Visiting beaches and climbing rocks have also been barred. Fishermen have been advised to monitor weather warnings and refrain from venturing out to sea.

Residents living in landslide-prone areas are advised to remain vigilant for warning signs such as unusual sounds, ground cracks, or tilting trees. If such signs are observed, they should immediately move to safer locations and inform the authorities. Those residing along riverbanks or in low-lying areas are told to exercise extra caution, as water may be released from dams at short notice.

The public is also strictly advised against touching fallen power cables or submerged electrical equipment. Any electrical hazards should be reported immediately to the KSEB to prevent accidents.

A police control room is functioning round the clock to manage and coordinate response operations. Emergency vehicles and specialised rescue equipment have been deployed at key centres across the district to deal with potential crises.

Officials have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone spreading misinformation or false rumours on social media. The public has been urged to rely solely on verified information issued by the government, district authorities, the police, and the India Meteorological Department.

Citizens can report floods, landslides, fallen trees, individuals in danger, or other emergency situations directly to the nearest police station or via the Kerala Police emergency number, 112.

Mr. Shoukathali appealed to the public to remain vigilant and fully cooperate with emergency services to ensure effective disaster management during this period of heavy rainfall.