'Distress in relief camp, no government assistance': Congress leader shares ordeal through video

PATHANAMTHITTA: A Congress leader came out to complain to the government about the dire situation in the relief camp. Congress booth president Alex M George said that those present in Aranmula Neervilakom camp are living in distress and are not receiving any help from the government.

Alex said there was a shortage of food and water and said they have been ignored for the last three days. Alex said he contacted many officials but to no avail. A news channel released the video of the Congress leader explaining the dire situation. Alex now puts hope only on voluntary organisations. The video came out just before Chief Minister VD Satheesan visited the disaster areas in Pathanamthitta.

Flood hits Neervilakom every year. If the water rises, it is not possible to reach here by road. The only hope is by boat. MLA Abin Varkey said that steps will be taken to bring aid to Neervilakom as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, water has started receding in Aranmula and Ranni. The speed of water receding increased with the cessation of rain today. It is learnt that the Chief Minister will visit the region, including Ranni and talk directly to the disaster victims. The visit comes ahead of decisions regarding emergency assistance for those affected by the rains being taken in tomorrow's cabinet meeting. Officials say that 13,496 people are staying in 353 relief camps.