Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday announced that the state government has decided to cancel this year’s Onam celebrations in view of the devastating floods in the state caused by incessant rains.
The CM said the amount that was allocated for Onam-related programmes will now be used for flood relief activities.
“The money set aside for Onam will be used for relief work. We seek everyone's help in our efforts," Vijayan told the media after a cabinet meeting.
Like every other year, the state was preparing to hold week-long festivities with Thiru Onam falling on August 25.
Vijayan said it was for the first time since 1924 that the state was facing a crisis of this magnitude.
“This disaster comes at a time when Kerala is just recovering from the damage caused by the Ockhi cyclone,” said the CM.
The CM appreciated the role of the Centre and said that the decision to release Rs 100 crore for the state was favourable.
“The people who are in distress will feel confident if all of us stand together especially at a time like this,” added Vijayan.
Vijayan added that he has requested the Centre to send another team to take stock of the situation in the state.
Since August 8, there has been widespread destruction following incessant rains, causing rivers to overflow. The opening of shutters of 27 dams in the state has resulted in widespread damage to crops and properties.
In the last one week, 38 people have died and four are missing. According to a rough estimate, more than one lakh people have been affected.
Idukki and Wayanad are the worst-hit districts, while Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Ernakulam too have been badly affected.
Vijayan said the Cabinet has decided to form a sub-committee to look into the swift implementation of relief and rehabilitation measures.