Rescue works intensified, five more choppers to ply

Thiruvanthapuram: As the day started with let-up in the rain, rescue operations are to be beefed up in the flood hit areas of the state.

Despite water started receding, a lot of people are still marooned at places.

Meanwhile, red alert declared in three districts have been withdrawn.

However, water levels at Idukki dam has risen to 2402.1 feet, couple of feet below full capacity.

Authorities informed that rescue operation would be enhanced inducting more helicopters. Five more choppers would be plied.

Both the ailing and the old people would be the first to be shifted to hospitals.

People stranded in Chengannur and Thiruvalla, where situation is still very grim, would likely to be saved today. Interior Chengannur would get more focus in rescue operations.

Rescue operations are underway in both Kutanad and Panthalam

Water started receding from flood swallowed Ernakulam. Also, rescuers continue works in Kalady and Panayikulam. Efforts are on to airlift those marooned in Nelliyampathy, authorities said.