Relatives carry body through floodwaters in Thiruvalla due to heavy rains and submerged bridge

THIRUVALLA: Relatives carry a dead body through floodwaters after roads and bridges were submerged. The incident happened in Thiruvalla Vengal Chalakuzhi. Joseph Marcos (80) from Chanthuruthilveedu, Chalakuzhi, died. His body was taken through the waterlogged area.

The crisis arose because the road and a temporary bridge built by the locals were submerged due to heavy rains. Joseph Marcos died on Thursday and it was decided to cremate him today. Heavy rain since yesterday has flooded the area. Despite repeated appeals to local authorities to resolve the waterlogging, no action was taken. Waterlogging persists in the area for six months each year during the rainy season.

Meanwhile, the Central Meteorological Department has warned that rain will continue in the state for the next five days. There is also a warning of heavy rain in isolated places from today until Monday. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 km/h are also likely as a cyclone prevails over South Kerala.

There is a possibility of high waves and sea damage along the Kerala coast and fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea. Vigilance is also advised in hilly areas. Due to the prevailing cyclone over South Kerala, heavy rains are expected.