Suryap

Kerala: Odisha Fire Service personnel in Kerala have intensified their rescue operations in flood-ravaged areas of the state as rain eased down today.

As many as 250 fire service personnel from Odisha were seen engaged in saving lives and launching rescue operations with the help of life jackets and boats.

Sharing his experience during an exclusive on-spot coverage by OTV, a fire service personnel said, “The condition was very grim when we reached here. For the past four days, all of us have engaged ourselves in rescue operation on basis of information provided by the local administration. Many people are found stranded on trees.”

Another fire service personnel said, “Not knowing the local language remains a challenge for us. We have been mostly communicating through signs and waving of hands. Had we made announcement in the local language, it would have been more helpful.”

The rescued people are being sent to the hospital in coordination with the administration, informed the personnel.

“I am happy to be part of the rescue operation here. Moreover, the team is happy as the Government of India sought help from the Odisha Fire Service,” said another Odisha Fire Service personnel.

Also Read: Kerala flood: Family members of trapped Kandhamal workers plead for help

Other States including Maharashtra have also sent their team of doctors to assist in rescue operations.

Speaking to OTV, a Maharashtra Minister who is stationed in Kerala said, “The situation is very grim here and people are in a lot of trouble. As per the directive of Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, a team of 100 doctors have reached here and sent to three districts in Kerala. Medicines and equipment have also  been brought in two flights.”

Meanwhile, the death toll in Kerala has reached 373 so far and as many as 2.80 lakh people have been rescued. A total of 12.50 lakh persons have been kept in 5,645 relief centres in the State.

scrollToTop