As the flood waters in Kerala are set to recede, the full extent of destruction is yet to be estimated. But as of now, the state Government estimates that severe floods have caused damages worth 19512 crores. According to official estimates, over 373 people died, 1.2 million people are in relief camps – having lost their homes and displaced from their lands.
Over 20,000 houses are destroyed, 40,000 hectares of farmland is submerged under water and 83,000 kilometres of roads (including 16,000 kilometres of major arteries) are damaged. Transport networks are cut off. Thousands of people across the state are stranded in their homes, without food, water, electricity and medicines. Mobile phones and mobile networks are not working, making it harder for people to send SMS or share their contact co-ordinates with the rescue teams.
As the floods unleashed their fury, the people of Kerala – regardless of religion, caste, creed – are helping one another. The fishermen community who brought out their boats and rescued people need a special mention. Instead of waiting for support from the government, over 1200 fishermen pooled money from their own pockets and took out over 460 outboard engine boats and catamarans to flood-hit areas.
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