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Kerala rains: Government calls off Onam celebrations

WION Web Team
New Delhi, Delhi, IndiaUpdated: Aug 14, 2018, 05:28 PM IST
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File photo. Photograph:(ANI)

Reeling under the unprecedented havoc caused by heavy rains, the Kerala government today decided do away with the 'Onam' celebrations this year and instead utilise the amount for relief operations.

The Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had informed that at least 39 people had been killed and six missing in rain-related incidents in the state. Flash floods due to incessant rains have wreaked havoc in several districts of the state. 

The torrential rains have destroyed 20,000 houses and damaged 10,000 km of roads in the state since August 8.

The government has resolved not to organise programmes held every year as part of the onam festivities, Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, told reporters here.

The amount set apart for the celebrations would be used for relief work in the state, he added.

Vijayan on Sunday had informed that as per the preliminary report, the total damage due to floods in the state is estimated to be worth Rs 8316 crore.

The government organises events across district headquarters and in the state capital during the week-long 'Onam' celebrations. 'Onam' (harvest festival) falls on August 25 this year.

From past few days, normal life in many parts has been disrupted. The areas which were worst hit are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki, and Mallapuram districts.

During Onam, city streets are illuminated, handicrafts fairs, folk arts and various programmes are organised during the celebrations which concludes with a grand procession of floats in the state capital.

Earlier, the state government had also postponed the annual Nehru trophy boat race.