As heavy rains continue to batter several parts of the state, the Kerala government announced on Monday that emergency operation centers have been established in all district collectorates and taluk offices to address any urgent situations. Kerala Revenue Minister K. Rajan stated that special instructions have been issued to warn tourists about the weather conditions. He emphasised the need for strict regulations in hilly areas due to the potential threat of landslides.
On Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for four districts in Kerala—Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Alappuzha—predicting extremely heavy rainfall until May 21. Due to the potential hazards associated with the heavy rains, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has urged people to stay vigilant.
Addressing reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Rajan said, "The Disaster Management Authority has warned that there is even the possibility of mudslides on the road due to heavy rains."
The Minister said that safety boards would be installed in these areas to warn travelers about the potential threat of landslides and district collectors have been authorised to impose a night travel ban in hilly regions if necessary.
Further, the revenue minister added that 24/7 Emergency Operation Centres have been set up in all collectorates and taluk offices coordinated by various departments to handle urgent situations.
Earlier, Idukki District Collector imposed a ban on night travel through the district's hilly areas starting Sunday which will remain in effect until the red and orange alerts are lifted. Additionally, mining activities have been prohibited in Ernakulam and Kottayam districts due to the forecast of heavy rain.
On Monday, heavy rains caused severe waterlogging, uprooted trees, and snapped electric wires in various parts of the state. Health Minister Veena George announced that the Health Department has issued a warning to all districts about the potential outbreak of epidemics due to the ongoing heavy rains.