‘Send a chopper, or more will die’: Kerala MLA makes desperate appeal for flood-hit Chengannur

At least 23 additional deaths were reported through the day in Kerala, taking the death toll in the current spell of rain to over 200.

Chengannur MLA Saji Cherian on Friday raised fears of at least 50 flood-related casualties in his constituency, and sought more help from the Kerala government.

People wade across a waterlogged street after being rescued from flood-affected regions following heavy monsoon rainfall in Kochi on Saturday.(PTI Photo)

“Please give us a helicopter. I am begging you. Please help me, people in my hometown will die. Please help us. There is no other solution, people have to be airlifted,” a tearful Cherian told Asianet TV late that night.

The Chengannur MLA said they have done everything in their power to rescue those stranded in the floods. “We did what we can with fishing boats procured using our political connections. We can’t do more,” he added.

 

However, he appeared much more composed on Saturday, stating that the situation in his consitituency had improved considerably. “People in remote areas were scared and boats weren’t able to rescue them. That’s what caused my reaction. Today, the Navy has rescued 200 people and the atmosphere is much better,” the MLA added.

At least 33 additional deaths were reported through the day in Kerala, taking the death toll in the current spell of rain to over 200. Besides the Union government’s interim grant of Rs 500 crore, several states - including Telangana, Maharashtra and Delhi - have come forward with monetary contributions for the Kerala chief minister’s relief fund.

The rain abated on Saturday, but many continue to be stranded in the floodwater.

(With agency inputs)

To contribute to the Kerala government’s relief fund:

Account number: 67319948232

Bank: State Bank of India

Branch: City branch, Thiruvananthapuram

IFS Code: SBIN0070028

PAN: AAAGD0584M

Name of Donee: CMDRF