Heavy rain, gusty winds lash central Travancore

Relentless rain and squally winds that have been battering central Travancore since Friday have left a trail of destruction across the region, with Kottayam district bearing the brunt.

According to official estimates, rain-related damage has been reported in 54 villages across Kottayam. As many as 172 houses have sustained partial damage. Two relief camps, one each in Kottayam and Changanassery taluks, have been opened and they together accommodate 19 people from four families.

Strong winds uprooted trees and shattered glass panels, causing damage to several houses. In many locations, fallen trees also brought down power lines and electricity poles, disrupting supply and increasing the risk of further hazards. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has suffered an estimated loss of ₹2.43 lakh in the district

The worst-hit area was the Kottayam Electrical Circle, where 369 low-tension poles and 62 high-tension poles were damaged. Numerous power lines were also destroyed, with the total loss in this region estimated at ₹1.67 crore.

The Pala Electrical Circle too suffered significant damage, incurring a loss of ₹75.55 lakh. In this area, 260 low-tension poles and 60 high-tension poles were reported broken.

Rising water levels

Rising water levels in rivers have heightened the risk of flooding in low-lying areas in the western parts of the district. Meanwhile, the eastern high ranges face a growing threat of landslips. Authorities have urged residents in high-risk zones, particularly in the Koottickal and Wagamon regions, to remain alert.

In Pathanamthitta, water levels in major dams continued to rise sharply throughout the day. At the Kakki-Anathodu dam, the level reached 973.16 m, compared to its full reservoir level (FRL) of 981.46 m. The Pampa dam recorded a level of 980.4 m, while a red alert has already been issued for the Moozhiyar dam, where the water level stands at 191.85 m.

Water levels in both the Pampa and Achencoil rivers also continued to rise steadily and are now approaching the warning threshold.

Meanwhile, three relief camps are currently operational in the Thiruvalla taluk. A total of 53 people from 14 families, including 22 women and 11 children, have taken shelter in these camps.