I had decided to spend this summer at my hometown in Pathanamthitta in Kerala when the state got hit by the worst spell of rains and floods in its history. Luckily, I wasn’t affected by the floods or waterlogging because my area is shaped like a V and my house is located on the top.
But that hasn’t lessened our ordeal. We didn't have electricity for 28 hours, resulting in disruption of mobile networks, no drinking water supply and no way to charge our mobiles.
I went to the town yesterday, but 95% of shops were closed. I couldn't find candles, matches, bread, eggs and many daily necessities. Vegetables and fruits are hard to find.
Some of our relatives in Pandanad, Chengannur and Venmony have been stuck on the first floor or terrace of their houses for the past three to four days now. About a dozen members of a family were rescued in a private boat on Sunday by their relatives, who flew in from Dubai and Bengaluru.
One of my friend—who lives in Ranni, a small town close to Sabarimala—tried to get his merchandise shifted to the first floor of the house, but got stuck half way. He could only come out on the fourth day. Thank God, there has been no casualty among friends and relatives.
Everyone needs help here, irrespective of their creed, colour or financial status.
It is heartening to see that a large number of people, organisations, NGOs and Church officials are working at the forefront of relief and rescue operations.