Heavy rain leaves trail of damage in T’puram

T'puram: Continuous heavy rain and strong winds over the past two days caused widespread damage across the capital district, claiming one life and a fisherman missing in a boat accident off the Vizhinjam fishing harbour coast.The deceased was identified as Antony, 52, of Vizhinjam. Stellas, 48, of Pulluvila is missing and search operations are underway under the aegis of coastal police and marine squad.District recorded damage to 144 houses, with 138 partially destroyed and six completely demolished. In Nedumangad taluk, 31 houses were partially damaged and one house was completely destroyed. Chirayinkeezhu taluk reported nine partially damaged houses, while eight homes were affected in Kattakada. Varkala saw 38 houses suffer partial damage. Neyyattinkara taluk was among the worst-hit, with 52 houses partially damaged and five completely destroyed. Agricultural farmlands in Neyyattinkara, at places like Chenkal and Kulathoor, were also destroyed.Two relief camps have been started in the district and 11 people were relocated from flood-affected areas.Thursday evening's intense rain was accompanied by strong winds, uprooting trees and causing damage to public infrastructure. The storm also severely disrupted essential services. Damaged electric poles led to widespread power outages across several parts of the city. A tree fell on the district disaster management authority's office and the water level in Vamanapuram river rose significantly. Shutters of Neyyar dam were opened as a precautionary measure.Urban areas, including Vattiyoorkavu, Nettayam, Kerala Nagar, PTP Nagar, Sasthamangalam, Ambalamukku, Poojappura, Vazhuthacaud, Kuravankonam, Valiyavila, Kudappanakunnu, Jagathy, Thirumala, Thycaud, Pattom and West Fort, reported tree falls, particularly near roads and residential buildings.Disaster response teams and local officials are coordinating to ensure safety and provide relief to affected residents. IMD issued an orange alert in the district on Saturday.High waves alert issued: National Centre for Ocean Information Services issued a warning of high waves and sea surge along Kerala coast on Saturday. A red alert has been declared in the coastal areas in the district, from Kappil to Pozhiyoor. Fisherfolk and coastal residents are advised to remain extremely cautious.