Navy's Seaking helicopters were used extensively for rescue operations during the Kerala floods

The Navy will, however, continue to support the state in relief and rehabilitation efforts

KOCHI: After rescuing over 16,000 people in the 14-day long rescue and relief operation, Indian Navy has called off their rescue operations on Wednesday. Though the Navy’s rescue operations, code-named #OperationMadad have come to an end, the Navy will continue to support the state administration in their relief and rehabilitation efforts. 

“The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) had requested the assistance of Southern Naval Command in the clearing of obstacles in the inlet of the leading pipe of raw water pump house at Elookkara in Aluva,” said a Navy spokesperson. “The pump house is used to supply drinking water to Kadungalloor, Karumalloor, Alangad, Kadamakkudy and Varapuzha panchayats. The water supply had been suspended since August 15, due to floods. A seven-member diving team was sent to the pump house and they found two uprooted and submerged trees were blocked the pipeline and removed them so that water supply could be restored,” said spokesperson.

Meanwhile, to ensure that connectivity to the city is not lost, the Naval Air Station, Garuda will continue facilitating civil aircraft operations till Cochin International Airport is operational again. The community kitchen set up by the Navy at the relief camp at Cochin University of Science and Technology with 17 cooks, four officers and 13 staff providing meals for nearly 10,000 people will be operational till August 25 as per the request of district administration.