Rescue personnel evacuate residents from Kakkodi, Kozhikode, following heavy rain on Monday (August 3, 2026).
| Photo Credit: K. RAGESH
Amid heavy rainfall, the Kozhikode City police have deployed disaster management measures and increased surveillance to ensure public safety.A special team led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Padam Singh and Additional SPs, Assistant Commissioners of Police, Inspectors, and Sub-Inspectors, has been specially appointed for duty. City police chief A.P. Shoukathali will coordinate the team.Coordination has been strengthened with the Fire and Rescue Services, the Revenue department, the District Disaster Management Authority, the Health department, local self-government bodies, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Mr. Shoukathali said.Surveillance strengthenedPolice patrolling and surveillance have been strengthened in low-lying areas, riverbanks, waterlogged roads, bridges, beaches, tourist spots, and areas prone to landslides. The public are strongly advised not to enter hazardous areas.Due to the heavy rain, the public are urged to adhere strictly to safety guidelines. Driving through waterlogged roads or swiftly flowing rivers is strictly prohibited, and people must not cross or stand near bridges, canals, or culverts. Visiting beaches and climbing rocks are also barred. Fishers are advised to monitor weather warnings and refrain from going out to sea.Residents living in landslide-prone areas must remain vigilant for warning signs such as unusual sounds, ground cracks, or tilting trees, and should immediately move to safer locations while informing the authorities. Those residing along riverbanks or in low-lying areas should exercise extra caution, as water may be released from dams at short notice. The public is strictly advised against touching fallen power cables or submerged electrical equipment, and any electrical hazards should be reported immediately to the KSEB.The police control room is functioning throughout the day to manage and coordinate response operations. Emergency vehicles and specialised rescue equipment have been deployed at key centres across the district to deal with potential crises.Strict actionOfficials also warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone spreading misinformation or false rumours on social media. The public are urged to rely solely on verified information issued by the government, district authorities, the police, and the India Meteorological Department.Floods, landslides, fallen trees, individuals in danger, or other emergency situations can be reported directly to the nearest police station or via the Kerala Police emergency number, 112.Mr. Shoukathali has appealed to the public to remain vigilant and fully cooperate with emergency services to ensure effective disaster management.(The writer, Aleesha V. Joseph, is an intern with The Hindu) Published - August 04, 2026 03:53 pm IST
