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109 killed as tidal waves hit Kerala coast
At least 109 people were killed as huge tidal waves ravaged long coastal stretches of Kerala's southern districts today.
At least 109 people were killed as huge tidal waves ravaged long coastal stretches of Kerala's southern districts on Sunday.
Hapless fisherfolk in Kollam and Alappuzha were virtually caught in the vortex of the ocean fury as huge waves pounded densely-populated fishing hamlets spawning death and devastation.
Hundreds were injured and rendered homeless and many lost their boats and fishing implement.
Rescuers swung into action moving people from the vulnerable areas to relief camps opened in schools away from danger zones.
Kollam recorded the highest toll of 86 followed by Alappuzha 20 and Ernakulam 3, police said.
Terrified women and children came out of their homes crying as bodies of their near and dear ones emerged from the sea waters.
The worst hit areas were Sakthikulangara, Karunagapally and Alappad in Kollam district and Andhakaranazhi in Alappuzha.
Strong waves also lashed coastal stretches of Kozhikode, Kannur and Thirssur but no casualty had been reported from these districts.
The state government sought the help of the Navy and the Army for rescue work and announced Rs 50,000 each to the families of those killed.
Train services on Kayamkulam-Alappuzha sector have been suspended while road traffic on the National Highway was disrupted as surging waters damaged the bridge at Thottallay near Alappuzha.
