Widespread landslides in eastern parts of Kottayam; Air Force and Army to come to rescue

KOTTAYAM: The Indian Army and Indian Air Force will come to rescue people in Kottayam district, which was badly affected by landslides and heavy rains. Officials said landslides have been reported around the areas of Koottickal and Peruvanthanam--the two hilly areas falling under Kottayam and Idukki districts respectively --and at least 10 people are feared missing in the incidents. A defence spokesperson said the Indian Air Force and Indian Army stationed in Kerala have deployed their assets. ''Mi-17 and Sarang Helicopters are already in standby mode to meet the requirements. All the bases under Southern Air Command have been put on high alert in view of the prevalent weather situation at Kerala'', the spokesperson said in a statement.

''Indian Army has already deployed army personnel to the flood-affected areas. One column consists of One Officer, 2 JCOs and 30 other ranks of army personnel already moved to Kanjirappally, Kottayam District from Pangode Military Station along with two Baut with OBM and other equipment under the leadership of Major Abin Paul.'' She said the meeting with IAF and Army Officials with the state government authorities are still going on.

Many areas in Erattupetta town were waterlogged after the Meenachil river overflowed. Landslides were reported at three places in Koottickal. Apart from this, the towns of Mundakkayam, Ponkunnam and Kanjirapally were also flooded.

Landslides are likely to take place in many places as the soil is soaked due to rains. The Kottayam District Collector said that people should avoid going out with vehicles as heavy rains continue.