Thiruvananthapuram, India. The situation of Kerala which undergoes the biggest flood of this century is becoming worse due to incessant heavy rains, landslides and over 33 dams are opened. The death toll has risen to 60 due to landslides and flood. All rail road and major airports are closed. All low-level areas and towns are under water. A major part of the population is affected. Our centers are also affected – Claret Sadan Vythiri and parishes on the banks of rivers.
Claret Sadan Vytrhiri community is slowly recovering its first shock. After the flood the water level decreased on 10th of August and the clearance of mud and waste from the buildings – church, residence and school – were in progress with the help of 100 volunteers for four days but suddenly on 14th of August the water level increased, and the area was flooded again. The cleaning works are stopped for the moment. The focus right now is reaching to the people affected through distribution of essential materials.
Meanwhile the whole of Kerala is affected by flood. 12 out of 14 districts are on red Alert. Fr. Jomon Athazhapadam, CMF, who is in charge of St. Sebastian’s Church Valoor in Ernakulam district, member of Claretian Provincial House, wasn’t able to return to the community as the Parish and surroundings are submerged in water. He is staying in the relief camp along with people of the area. He is safe and leads the faithful in organizing the rescue operations.
We continue to request for your valuable prayers for the state. We are planning and coordinating the relief and support works as the flood comes down and we are able to reach the places.
(Report by the Provincial Secretary of St. Thomas – Fr. Thomas Paingottu, CMF)
If you wish to help, see SOS FOR VYTHIRI, INDIA
