Heavy Rains Devastate Kerala Farmers as Rescue Operations Intensify

Kottayam’s farmers face severe delays in their paddy season, 'Punchakrishi,' due to heavy rainfall. Flooded fields, invasive water plants, and inadequate government aid exacerbate the crisis. The Indian Army and Air Force intensify rescue missions as landslide deaths rise to 158.

Heavy rainfall in Kottayam has led to significant disruption for farmers as their farming season, 'Punchakrishi,' has been delayed. Flooded paddy fields across Kerala have impeded water drainage, stalling farming activities.

The farmers grapple with invasive water plants and insufficient government aid. Chandran, a paddy farmer, lamented the minimal assistance received. 'Apart from the subsidy, we haven’t received significant help from the government,' he said, expressing despair over the Rs. 700 subsidy provided this season.

The Indian Army has intensified rescue operations, evacuating over 1,000 individuals using man-made bridges and human effort. The Indian Air Force helicopters have also been active in rescue missions despite unfavorable conditions. The landslide death toll in Wayanad climbed to 158 as of IMD's most recent report.