Kerala flood: Army constructs 35 feet long footbridge

Padikkad, Aug 15: Army has constructed footbridge at area Padikkad from local resources in flood-hit Kerala on Wednesday. Column of 44 Field Regiment constructed the 35 feet long bridge footbridge at area Padikkad amidst heavily pouring rain.

National Disaster Response Force evacuated 926 persons to safer place so far at Pathamithitta, Kozzhikode, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Alappuzha.

The State government has announced Red alert in the wake of worsening situation. All educational institutions across the states are closed.

Meanwhile, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has communicated to Tamil Nadu CM E.K. Palaniswami demanding his intervention to reduce the water level of Mullaperiyar Dam to 139 ft. The water level in Mullaperiyar Dam has reached 142 ft.

Construction of wooden bridge

Column of 44 Field Regiment constructed foot bridge at area Padikkad from local resources. In heavily pouring rain the construction was completed. The Army and NDRF are part of 'Operation Madad' launched the Central government in flood hit Kerala a week ago. The death toll has reached 75.

Rehabilitation camps

Army personnel have helped bring the tribals living in remote settlements to the rehabilitation camps in mainland in high range Idukki and Wayanad districts, authorities said. When the army team had reached Virinjapara- Mankulam area in Idukki district two days ago, the situation was very bad due to inclement weather and lack of connectivity, reported PTI.

Rescue operation

The soldiers rescued 100 people (approximately) including children and senior citizens from Malampuzha's Valiyakadu village.

Local support

In its tweet, the Army also hailed the efforts of an operator, Adarsh Mohan, who showed great courage by crossing the raging river to establish contact with the other end.

Venthodanpadi bridge

Venthodanpadi bridge connecting Chokkad & Kalikavu was washed away. Rescue columns utilizing local resources completed one part of the bridge. Operator Adarsh Mohan displaying the great courage swam across the river to establish contact with other bank.