Even as the swollen rivers began gradually retreating to their original course on Tuesday, Pathanamthitta district continued to be on the edge with the water level in all major rivers still flowing well above the danger mark.
Officials said the Pampa, Manimala and Achencoil remained in spate following heavy rain over the previous night. While the floodwaters began to recede from the upper reaches with the rain subsiding, the run-off water was set to enter more parts of the Upper Kuttanad region in the downstream by Tuesday night.
In a meeting convened by Health Minister Veena George to review the progress of rescue and relief operations in the district, government officials were directed not to leave the district and avoid taking leaves in view of the emergency situation. Those living on the riverbanks have been advised to remain vigilant against possible landslips.
