Updated On: 21 August, 2018 08:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar Menon
More than 2.20 lakh people affected; flood waters recede, showing extent of devastation; help pours in from neighbouring states

The Ambodukochi relief camp in Kochi
While the flood waters have receded and rescue operations are in their last stages, the Kerala government faces its biggest challenge yet: bringing the state back to normalcy. At the moment, the state is still struggling to cobble together monetary resources. Major Dinesh Bhaskaran, additional private secretary to the chief minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, said, "We are struggling for monetary resources. Neighbouring states like Telangana, Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu and the public at large have so far helped us get around Rs 200 crore. The estimated loss so far has been calculated at around Rs 20,000 crore. This is the amount required to rebuild the lives of over 2.20 lakh affected people."
Officials attached to the CMO added, 'The state has lost entire paddy fields and the loss of human life has been estimated at more than 350. Luckily, all schools, colleges and universities are shut for Onam. Some school structures are damaged and may need major repairs." The officer added, "Cyber miscreants are using the social media platform to spread rumours and fake messages. The chief minister has already directed the state police to take the strictest action against such cyber offenders."