Kochi: Several areas in Ernakulam like Kunnukara, Kuthiyath- odu, Puthanvelikara, parts of Paravur and Valiya Pazhampally Thuruth (VP Thuruth) still remain isolated. Though water level has receded, road traffic is yet to be restored.
“There is still knee -level water in areas hit by the floods. The roads and streets are covered with a thick layer of slush and mud. It will take a few more days to restore normal traffic,” said Manoj Lal, a KSRTC employee from VP Thuruth.
Though high tonnage big vehicles with more ground clearance are allowed through the Chendamangalam – VP Thuruth – Puthanvelikara route, the stretch is risky for other vehicles.
“Kunnukara, Kuthiyathodu, Puthanve- likara, Kanakkankadavu, Kurumassery and Thuruthoor are isolated. Though relief materials are air dropped at the Presentation College camp in Puthanvelikara, it is difficult to transport them to other camps nearby,” said M.P. Shajan, camp coordinator.
The areas near Kanakkankadavu where Chalakudy and Periyar rivers join are cut off with more than knee-level water.
“Though rescue operations have been nearly completed, relief camps in remote areas and isolated families in top locations are not getting enough food and drinking water. Shops have been looted and there is no way to get essential goods,” said Benny Thomas, a resident of Puthanvelikara.
Camp coordinators in isolated areas have urged the authorities to provide medical aid and cleaning products to those who return to their houses.
