Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year.

The southern states of Kerala and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-dead-14-missing-in-flood-hit-karnataka-since-august-1-242332">Karnataka</a>, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines.

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-reaches-91-with-59-missing-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-kerala-242809">95 people were killed</a> and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people.

About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede.

In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams.

Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state.

Video:&nbsp;Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India

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Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said.

In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official.

"We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said.

In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said.

In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains. The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year. The southern states of Kerala and Karnataka, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines. At least 95 people were killed and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people. About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede. In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams. Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state. Video: Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said. In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official. "We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said. In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said. In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Death toll rises to 270 due to floods in India, over one million displaced

As many as 43 people died, while three remained missing on Monday in the Pune division as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-flood-21-relief-teams-de-requisitioned-after-situation-turns-normal-in-kolhapur-sangli-districts-242480">incessant rainfall</a> continued to batter Maharashtra, an official statement said.

A statement from the Divisional Commissioner Office in Pune revealed that over four lakh people were evacuated from as many as 584 villages to safer places due to floods in the five districts of Pune division.

To cater the people who were rescued, 596 temporary shelter camps were also set up, the officials said.&nbsp;

"Forty-six villages of Pune division are still completely cut off due to floods. 105 units of different agencies along with 164 boats are still deployed in Kolhapur and Sangli district. 66 bridges of five districts are still closed due to floods and waterlogging," said the officials in a statement.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had, on Saturday, visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation.

85 teams of National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Territorial Army, Indian Navy and Indian Army are currently deployed in Sangli and Kolhapur districts for rescue efforts.

Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts.&nbsp;

As many as 43 people died, while three remained missing on Monday in the Pune division as incessant rainfall continued to batter Maharashtra, an official statement said.

As many as 43 people died, while three remained missing on Monday in the Pune division as incessant rainfall continued to batter Maharashtra, an official statement said. A statement from the Divisional Commissioner Office in Pune revealed that over four lakh people were evacuated from as many as 584 villages to safer places due to floods in the five districts of Pune division. To cater the people who were rescued, 596 temporary shelter camps were also set up, the officials said. "Forty-six villages of Pune division are still completely cut off due to floods. 105 units of different agencies along with 164 boats are still deployed in Kolhapur and Sangli district. 66 bridges of five districts are still closed due to floods and waterlogging," said the officials in a statement. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had, on Saturday, visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation. 85 teams of National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Territorial Army, Indian Navy and Indian Army are currently deployed in Sangli and Kolhapur districts for rescue efforts. Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts.

43 dead, 3 missing as flood continues to batter Maharashtra

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Tuesday established a medical camp on Haripur Road in Sangli to ensure medical help to people in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-chief-minister-fadnavis-ministers-to-donate-months-salary-for-flood-relief-242782">flood-affected district</a>.

As the rescue operations are coming to an end in Sangli and Kolhapur districts, the authorities have set up the camps to ensure that people receive necessary medical attention.&nbsp;

Two doctors of NDRF along with paramedics and support staff are stationed at the camp with essential medicines.

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As on Monday, 43 people have lost their lives due to floods in Pune division as the floods caused by heavy rainfall has brought life to a standstill.

More than four lakh people were rescued from 584 villages and evacuated to 596 temporary shelters in Pune, Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara and Solapur districts.

Around 302 medical teams are currently active in Satara, Sangli and Kolhapur districts.

Light to Moderate rainfall has been predicted by the India Meteorological Department in the five districts of Pune division for the next four days.&nbsp;

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Tuesday established a medical camp on Haripur Road in Sangli to ensure medical help to people in the flood-affected district.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) on Tuesday established a medical camp on Haripur Road in Sangli to ensure medical help to people in the flood-affected district. As the rescue operations are coming to an end in Sangli and Kolhapur districts, the authorities have set up the camps to ensure that people receive necessary medical attention. Two doctors of NDRF along with paramedics and support staff are stationed at the camp with essential medicines. #MaharashtraFloods: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has established a medical camp on Haripur road in Sangli. Two doctors of NDRF along with paramedics and support staff with essential medicines are present there to ensure medical help to people. pic.twitter.com/pPw3Anz9Zu — ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2019 × As on Monday, 43 people have lost their lives due to floods in Pune division as the floods caused by heavy rainfall has brought life to a standstill. More than four lakh people were rescued from 584 villages and evacuated to 596 temporary shelters in Pune, Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara and Solapur districts. Around 302 medical teams are currently active in Satara, Sangli and Kolhapur districts. Light to Moderate rainfall has been predicted by the India Meteorological Department in the five districts of Pune division for the next four days.

Maharashtra: NDRF sets up medical camp in flood-affected Sangli district

As the situation is coming back to normal in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-force-rescues-156-people-from-flood-affected-areas-in-gujarat-maharashtra-242265">Maharashtra's flood-hit Kolhapur and Sangli districts</a>, the 21 relief teams are being de-requisitioned, Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) said on Monday.

''A total of 21 Relief Teams which were providing assistance to the flood-affected persons of Kolhapur and Sangli in Maharashtra are being de-requisitioned as the situation is coming back to normal,'' Defence PRO said.

The Defence PRO further said that around 3000 army personnel have been deployed for flood relief and rescue operations in 15 districts of the four affected states.

Around 35,000 people have been so far rescued or evacuated from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-assures-assistance-to-flood-hit-maharashtra-241814">food-hit states</a>.

So far 40 people have died in Maharashtra due to heavy rainfall.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation.

Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts.

Indian Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rainfall from Monday onwards in Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara, Pune and Solapur districts in Pune division.

According to the latest reports,&nbsp;the death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra rose to 147.

As the situation is coming back to normal in Maharashtra's flood-hit Kolhapur and Sangli districts, the 21 relief teams are being de-requisitioned, Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) said on Monday.

As the situation is coming back to normal in Maharashtra's flood-hit Kolhapur and Sangli districts, the 21 relief teams are being de-requisitioned, Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) said on Monday. ''A total of 21 Relief Teams which were providing assistance to the flood-affected persons of Kolhapur and Sangli in Maharashtra are being de-requisitioned as the situation is coming back to normal,'' Defence PRO said. The Defence PRO further said that around 3000 army personnel have been deployed for flood relief and rescue operations in 15 districts of the four affected states. Around 35,000 people have been so far rescued or evacuated from the food-hit states. So far 40 people have died in Maharashtra due to heavy rainfall. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation. Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts. Indian Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rainfall from Monday onwards in Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara, Pune and Solapur districts in Pune division. According to the latest reports, the death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra rose to 147.

3000 army personnel deployed in 15 districts across four flood-hit states in India

As many as 30 people died and 10 were missing as on Saturday in Pune division <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-floods-five-teams-of-ndrf-airlifted-to-pune-241474">as floods continue to batter Maharashtra.</a>

An update from the Divisional Commissioner office in Pune revealed that 30 died, 10 were missing and over four lakh people were evacuated to safer places due to floods in the five districts of Pune division.

More than 200 roads and 94 bridges were closed in the division due to flooding and landslides.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation.

85 teams of the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Territorial Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Army are currently deployed in Sangli and Kolhapur districts for rescue efforts.

Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts.

Indian Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rainfall from Monday onwards in Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara, Pune and Solapur districts in Pune division.

As many as 30 people died and 10 were missing as on Saturday in Pune division as floods continue to batter Maharashtra. An update from the Divisional Commissioner office in Pune revealed that 30 died, 10 were missing and over four lakh people were evacuated to safer places due to floods in the five districts of Pune division.

As many as 30 people died and 10 were missing as on Saturday in Pune division as floods continue to batter Maharashtra. An update from the Divisional Commissioner office in Pune revealed that 30 died, 10 were missing and over four lakh people were evacuated to safer places due to floods in the five districts of Pune division. More than 200 roads and 94 bridges were closed in the division due to flooding and landslides. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday visited the flood-affected Kolhapur and Sangli, to take stock of the situation. 85 teams of the National Disaster Response Force, State Disaster Response Force, Territorial Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Army are currently deployed in Sangli and Kolhapur districts for rescue efforts. Also, more than 300 medical teams are working in Sangli, Kolhapur and Satara districts. Indian Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rainfall from Monday onwards in Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara, Pune and Solapur districts in Pune division.

Maharashtra: Floods wreak havoc; 30 dead and 10 missing in Pune division

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

"South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said.

The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies.

"To provide assistance in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rescue-and-relief-work-beefs-up-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-india-241982"> prevailing flood situation</a> in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said.

He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens".

The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states.

The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat.

"From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said.

The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people.

Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has rescued 156 people apart from airlifting relief material and rescue personnel to flood-affected areas of Gujarat and Maharashtra since August 4, the South Western Air Command (SWAC) said on Sunday. "South Western Air Command has flown 74 sorties, rescued 156 people, including women and children, airlifted 23 tonnes of relief material and 124 personnel of NDRF, SDRF, Army and Naval rescue teams," a SWAC statement said. The command has pressed eight helicopters into service for rescue and relief operations and to provide assistance to different agencies. "To provide assistance in the prevailing flood situation in Gujarat and Maharashtra, South Western Air Command has deployed 8 helicopters. So far all rescue requirements for marooned people have been completed successfully," SWAC chief Air Marshal HS Arora said. He said the Air Force was "committed to meet all demands and save the lives of our citizens". The IAF's medium-lift helicopters and transport aircraft have been operating from various Air Force and civil airfields for positioning life-saving relief materials and rescue teams in the affected areas in the two states. The SWAC began its operations on August 4 when it rescued 45 people from Navsari area near Surat. "From August 6, relief and rescue missions in Maharashtra commenced in full swing, especially at Kolhapur," the statement said. The Air Force also carried out rescue missions in Jodia and Pittar areas near Jamnagar in Gujarat where two Mi-17 helicopters were pressed into action to rescue 29 marooned people. Several parts of the country including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Kerala and Karanataka have been reeling under floods following heavy rains.

Air Force rescues 156 people from flood-affected areas in Gujarat, Maharashtra

Flood fury continues in Southwest India. According to the reports, 42 are dead in Kerala and 24 in Karnataka. Also, more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara. Watch this video to know more.

Flood fury continues in Southwest India, 42 dead in Kerala

Around 6,000 people have been rescued and more than 15,000 have been evacuated from flood-affected areas in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Northern Kerala and Tamil Nadu till Friday, Indian Army said.

The Army has 123 rescue teams have been deployed in 16 districts across the four affected states for relief and rescue operations.

Indian Naval diving teams deployed in Karnataka's Kadra evacuated nearly 450 personnel to safety whilst other team operating from Kaiga evacuated 300 personnel to safety bringing a total number of rescued personnel in this area alone to 2,219.

Around 6,000 people have been rescued and more than 15,000 have been evacuated from flood-affected areas in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Northern Kerala and Tamil Nadu till Friday, Indian Army said.

Around 6,000 people have been rescued and more than 15,000 have been evacuated from flood-affected areas in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Northern Kerala and Tamil Nadu till Friday, Indian Army said. The Army has 123 rescue teams have been deployed in 16 districts across the four affected states for relief and rescue operations. Indian Naval diving teams deployed in Karnataka's Kadra evacuated nearly 450 personnel to safety whilst other team operating from Kaiga evacuated 300 personnel to safety bringing a total number of rescued personnel in this area alone to 2,219.

Monsoon mayhem: Over 15,000 evacuated from flood-affected areas in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/look-forward-to-seeing-kim-in-the-not-too-distant-future-tweets-trump-a-day-after-receiving-a-beautiful-letter-from-kim-242022">Look forward to seeing Kim in not too distant future, tweets Trump a day after receiving 'beautiful letter'</a>

A day after saying that he received a "very beautiful letter" from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, US President Donald Trump on Saturday revealed the content of the letter on Twitter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-from-floods-across-india-rises-to-95-hundreds-of-thousands-evacuated-241993">Death toll from floods across India rises to 95, hundreds of thousands evacuated</a>

The death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra rose to 95, official figures showed on Saturday, as heavy rain and landslides forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/despite-pakistans-suspension-thar-express-operating-on-schedule-railway-242023">Despite Pakistan's suspension Thar Express operating on schedule: Railway</a>

Despite Pakistan's announcement of suspension of Thar Express, the train, which plies every week between Jodhpur and Karachi, is running as per schedule on both sides of the international border on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanzania-fuel-tanker-blast-kills-57-241992">Tanzania tanker blast kills 57 as flames rip through crowd gathered to siphon petrol from it</a>

Fifty-seven people perished in Tanzania on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded after overturning on a road west of the capital Dar Es Salaam, police said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-landslide-kills-34-many-more-feared-missing-242008">Myanmar landslide kills 34, many more feared missing</a>

The death toll from a landslide triggered by monsoon rains in eastern Myanmar rose to at least 34, an official said Saturday, as emergency workers continued a desperate search through thick mud for scores more feared to miss.&nbsp;

Look forward to seeing Kim in not too distant future, tweets Trump a day after receiving 'beautiful letter' A day after saying that he received a "very beautiful letter" from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, US President Donald Trump on Saturday revealed the content of the letter on Twitter.

Look forward to seeing Kim in not too distant future, tweets Trump a day after receiving 'beautiful letter' A day after saying that he received a "very beautiful letter" from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, US President Donald Trump on Saturday revealed the content of the letter on Twitter. Death toll from floods across India rises to 95, hundreds of thousands evacuated The death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra rose to 95, official figures showed on Saturday, as heavy rain and landslides forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes. Despite Pakistan's suspension Thar Express operating on schedule: Railway Despite Pakistan's announcement of suspension of Thar Express, the train, which plies every week between Jodhpur and Karachi, is running as per schedule on both sides of the international border on Saturday. Tanzania tanker blast kills 57 as flames rip through crowd gathered to siphon petrol from it Fifty-seven people perished in Tanzania on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded after overturning on a road west of the capital Dar Es Salaam, police said. Myanmar landslide kills 34, many more feared missing The death toll from a landslide triggered by monsoon rains in eastern Myanmar rose to at least 34, an official said Saturday, as emergency workers continued a desperate search through thick mud for scores more feared to miss.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra rose to 95, official figures showed on Saturday, as heavy rain and landslides forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes.

Seasonal monsoon rains from June to September are a crucial lifeline for agrarian Indian society, delivering 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also bring in their wake death and destruction every year.

Some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/42-dead-in-rain-battered-kerala-19-trains-cancelled-241955">42 people died in southwestern Kerala</a> and over 100,000 affected people have been evacuated, the central government's disaster management cell said, after 80 landslides hit the state in two days.

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Rescue operations by teams from Goa Naval Area underway in Kolhapur (Maharashtra) &amp; Uttar Kannada (Karnataka) district. Today's rescue effort involved evacuation of 1016 persons by Navy teams in various parts of Maharashtra, Goa&amp;Karnataka which included 602 women &amp; 193 children <a href="https://t.co/s6A2yimRZ1">pic.twitter.com/s6A2yimRZ1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1160127484362481664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The state planned to open the gates of Banasurasagar dam in Wayanad district at 0930 GMT, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said during a news conference in the city of Kochi. Shutters of the dam were partially opened on Saturday morning to manage the water level and avoid serious damage, a senior state official of the district confirmed to Reuters.

A red alert, or severe rainfall and bad weather conditions forecast, has been issued for seven out of 14 districts in the state, the Kerala State Disaster Management control room told Reuters on Saturday.

Last year, Kerala was hit by one of its worst floods in one hundred years.&nbsp;

More than 200 people were killed and over 5 million affected.

Watch:&nbsp;Weather disturbance continues in India, Heavy rainfall batter west, south India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/weather-disturbance-continues-in-india-heavy-rainfall-batter-west-south-india-241990/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The state's busiest airport, Cochin International Airport, has been closed since Friday as the taxiway is water-logged. The airport is expected to reopen from Sunday as water levels had started to recede, the state body said.

In neighbouring Karnataka, home to India's tech hub Bengaluru, some 24 people have died in what chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa said on Saturday were the worst floods in 45 years.

Around 1,024 villages have been inundated due to the rains, several dams were reaching their full capacity, and over 200,000 people had been evacuated, he added.

As many as 16 of the state's 30 districts have been affected by the heavy rains and 235,105 people have been evacuated and shifted to 624 relief camps, Yeddyurappa added.

In Maharashtra, home to India's financial capital Mumbai, 29 people have died this week.

The Indian Meteorological Department said on its website that heavy to very heavy rain was likely to lash isolated areas of Kerala, parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra, and some southern states might also see extremely heavy rain on Saturday.

The death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra rose to 95, official figures showed on Saturday, as heavy rain and landslides forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes.

The death toll from floods in Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra rose to 95, official figures showed on Saturday, as heavy rain and landslides forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate their homes. Seasonal monsoon rains from June to September are a crucial lifeline for agrarian Indian society, delivering 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also bring in their wake death and destruction every year. Some 42 people died in southwestern Kerala and over 100,000 affected people have been evacuated, the central government's disaster management cell said, after 80 landslides hit the state in two days. Rescue operations by teams from Goa Naval Area underway in Kolhapur (Maharashtra) & Uttar Kannada (Karnataka) district. Today's rescue effort involved evacuation of 1016 persons by Navy teams in various parts of Maharashtra, Goa&Karnataka which included 602 women & 193 children pic.twitter.com/s6A2yimRZ1 — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2019 × The state planned to open the gates of Banasurasagar dam in Wayanad district at 0930 GMT, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said during a news conference in the city of Kochi. Shutters of the dam were partially opened on Saturday morning to manage the water level and avoid serious damage, a senior state official of the district confirmed to Reuters. A red alert, or severe rainfall and bad weather conditions forecast, has been issued for seven out of 14 districts in the state, the Kerala State Disaster Management control room told Reuters on Saturday. Last year, Kerala was hit by one of its worst floods in one hundred years. More than 200 people were killed and over 5 million affected. Watch: Weather disturbance continues in India, Heavy rainfall batter west, south India The state's busiest airport, Cochin International Airport, has been closed since Friday as the taxiway is water-logged. The airport is expected to reopen from Sunday as water levels had started to recede, the state body said. In neighbouring Karnataka, home to India's tech hub Bengaluru, some 24 people have died in what chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa said on Saturday were the worst floods in 45 years. Around 1,024 villages have been inundated due to the rains, several dams were reaching their full capacity, and over 200,000 people had been evacuated, he added. As many as 16 of the state's 30 districts have been affected by the heavy rains and 235,105 people have been evacuated and shifted to 624 relief camps, Yeddyurappa added. In Maharashtra, home to India's financial capital Mumbai, 29 people have died this week. The Indian Meteorological Department said on its website that heavy to very heavy rain was likely to lash isolated areas of Kerala, parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra, and some southern states might also see extremely heavy rain on Saturday.

Death toll from floods across India rises to 95, hundreds of thousands evacuated

Rescue and relief work beefs up as rains wreak havoc across western, southern India

Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

A total of around 6,000 persons have been rescued and more than 15,000 persons have been evacuated from flood-affected areas and have been provided medical aid. Security personnel also distributed food packets to the victims.

On Friday, a total of nine relief teams, 12 Engineer Task Forces teams were deployed in Maharashtra's Sirol and Sangli districts to carry out rescue operations.

In flood-hit areas, 24 relief teams, eight Engineer Task Force teams are working day and night to save the lives of people residing in Allepy, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala.

In Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri, six relief teams are working on a war footing to carry out rescue and relief operations.

Several states of the country are witnessing relentless rains from the past few days. Many isolated pockets of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already submerged due to swelling of&nbsp;rivers.

Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. A total of around 6,000 persons have been rescued and more than 15,000 persons have been evacuated from flood-affected areas and have been provided medical aid. Security personnel also distributed food packets to the victims. On Friday, a total of nine relief teams, 12 Engineer Task Forces teams were deployed in Maharashtra's Sirol and Sangli districts to carry out rescue operations. In flood-hit areas, 24 relief teams, eight Engineer Task Force teams are working day and night to save the lives of people residing in Allepy, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala. In Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri, six relief teams are working on a war footing to carry out rescue and relief operations. Several states of the country are witnessing relentless rains from the past few days. Many isolated pockets of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already submerged due to swelling of rivers.

Rescue and relief operations beefed up in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates.

The state is now grappling with a severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-operations-at-kochi-airport-suspended-till-sunday-afternoon-in-wake-of-heavy-rainfall-241608">flood situation following incessant rains</a>.

A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said.

28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up.

A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur.

As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.&nbsp;

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains.

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains. A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said. 28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up. A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur. As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara. On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.

Maharashtra flood: Over 2 lakh people rescued, 43 teams of multiple agencies deployed

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

"Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8.

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Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state.
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"The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read.

Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur.

"In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.&nbsp;

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas. "Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8. Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state. — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × "The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read. Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur. "In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.

Indian Navy mobilises rescue teams for flood relief and evacuation in Maharastra, Karnataka

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-flood-over-2-lakh-people-rescued-43-teams-of-multiple-agencies-deployed-241626">flood situation in the state</a>.

The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

"CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra.

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CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> briefs Hon PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraFloods</a> situation. 
Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1159756000339091456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As many as 29&nbsp;people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state.

"29&nbsp;people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division.

Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur.

The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts.

Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli.

The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. 
Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre. "CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra. CM @Dev_Fadnavis briefs Hon PM @narendramodi on #MaharashtraFloods situation. Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.@PMOIndia — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) August 9, 2019 × As many as 29 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state. "29 people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division. Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur. The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts. Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli. The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

PM Modi assures assistance to flood-hit Maharashtra

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party national president Amit Shah on Friday appointed election in-charges for the party for the upcoming Assembly elections in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Delhi and Haryana.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar has been appointed as election in-charge for Delhi Assembly polls. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai have been named as joint in-charges.

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BJP President &amp; Home Minister Amit Shah appoints Union Minister Prakash Javadekar as Election In-charge, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri &amp; Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai as Election Co-Incharge, for the upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections. <a href="https://t.co/i596kWbYvD">pic.twitter.com/i596kWbYvD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159711685176942593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BJP general secretary Bhupendra Yadav is election in-charge for state polls in Maharashtra. Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Keshav Prasad Maurya and former Karnataka MLA Laxman Savadi have been named as joint in-charges for Maharashtra Assembly polls.

For Jharkhand, Shah named BJP national general secretary Om Prakash Mathur as the election in-charge. Bihar minister Nand Kishore Yadav will be the joint in-charge.

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BJP President &amp; Home Minister Amit Shah appoints BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav as Election In-charge, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Keshav Prasad Maurya &amp; former Karnataka MLA Laxman Savadi as Election Co-Incharges, for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly Polls. <a href="https://t.co/D74Sn9oM46">pic.twitter.com/D74Sn9oM46</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159715518464581635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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For Haryana, minister Narendra Singh Tomar is the party election in-charge. Uttar Pradesh minister Bhupendra Singh is the joint in-charge

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party national president Amit Shah on Friday appointed election in-charges for the party for the upcoming Assembly elections in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Delhi and Haryana.

Union Home Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party national president Amit Shah on Friday appointed election in-charges for the party for the upcoming Assembly elections in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Delhi and Haryana. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar has been appointed as election in-charge for Delhi Assembly polls. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai have been named as joint in-charges. BJP President & Home Minister Amit Shah appoints Union Minister Prakash Javadekar as Election In-charge, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri & Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai as Election Co-Incharge, for the upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections. pic.twitter.com/i596kWbYvD — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × BJP general secretary Bhupendra Yadav is election in-charge for state polls in Maharashtra. Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Keshav Prasad Maurya and former Karnataka MLA Laxman Savadi have been named as joint in-charges for Maharashtra Assembly polls. For Jharkhand, Shah named BJP national general secretary Om Prakash Mathur as the election in-charge. Bihar minister Nand Kishore Yadav will be the joint in-charge. BJP President & Home Minister Amit Shah appoints BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav as Election In-charge, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Keshav Prasad Maurya & former Karnataka MLA Laxman Savadi as Election Co-Incharges, for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly Polls. pic.twitter.com/D74Sn9oM46 — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × For Haryana, minister Narendra Singh Tomar is the party election in-charge. Uttar Pradesh minister Bhupendra Singh is the joint in-charge

BJP preps for upcoming Assembly polls; names in-charges for Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra 

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said.

The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur.

As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur."

The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said. The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

All trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said. The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station. At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur. As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur." The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts.

Maharashtra: Trains services on Pune-Miraj section suspended

Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were airlifted from Punjab for the rescue operations in the flood-hit state of Maharashtra, sources said on Thursday.

The teams will arrive in Pune and spread to flood-affected areas of Sangli and Kolhapur.

Till now, the NDRF has rescued over 3,000 and 2, 900 people from Kolhapur and Sangli district, respectively.

As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, four people have died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur.

A total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts, it stated.

Incessant rains in several parts across the state have resulted in massive waterlogging and flood-like situation.

Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing in the rain-affected areas of the state.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, all trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said.

The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

&nbsp;

Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were airlifted from Punjab for the rescue operations in the flood-hit state of Maharashtra, sources said on Thursday.

Five teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were airlifted from Punjab for the rescue operations in the flood-hit state of Maharashtra, sources said on Thursday. The teams will arrive in Pune and spread to flood-affected areas of Sangli and Kolhapur. Till now, the NDRF has rescued over 3,000 and 2, 900 people from Kolhapur and Sangli district, respectively. As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, four people have died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur. A total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts, it stated. Incessant rains in several parts across the state have resulted in massive waterlogging and flood-like situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing in the rain-affected areas of the state. Meanwhile, all trains services on Pune - Miraj section have been suspended with effect from Wednesday night, Central Railway officials said. The decision was taken after the water level exceeds danger level at the bridge near Bhilavadi railway station.

Maharashtra floods: Five teams of NDRF airlifted to Pune

At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur.

As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur."

The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts.

It also said that Sangli recorded most rainfall followed by Satara and Pune.

All schools and colleges remained closed in Sangli, Satara and Kolhapur districts on Wednesday as heavy rains continued to lash the region.

Incessant rains in several parts across the state have resulted in massive waterlogging and flood-like situation.

Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing in the rain-affected areas of the state.

At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur. As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur.

At least 16 people have lost their lives due to the prevailing flood situation in Pune, including districts of Satara, Sangli, Solapur and Kolhapur. As per an official statement by Divisional Commissioner of Pune Division, Deepak Mhaisekar, "Four people died in Pune, seven in Satara, two in Sangli, two in Kolhapur and one in Solapur." The statement said that a total of 1,32,360 people from 28,397 families have been evacuated from these districts. It also said that Sangli recorded most rainfall followed by Satara and Pune. All schools and colleges remained closed in Sangli, Satara and Kolhapur districts on Wednesday as heavy rains continued to lash the region. Incessant rains in several parts across the state have resulted in massive waterlogging and flood-like situation. Rescue and relief operations are underway on a war footing in the rain-affected areas of the state.

16 dead due to floods in Pune, surrounding districts

With <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-chief-minister-yediyurappa-conducts-aerial-survey-of-flood-affected-areas-240826">the flood situation worsening in Maharashtra and its neighbouring states</a>, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday dialled his Karnataka counterpart B S Yediyurappa and requested him to discharge water from the Almatti dam.

'CM Devendra Fadnavis also spoke to Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa and requested on Almatti discharge. He assured of positive actions,' the statement from CMO Maharashtra read.

The Maharashtra Chief Minister also reviewed the flood situation in the Yavatnal area along with the Chief Secretary, Disaster Management Department and various Districts administration of the region.

'CM Devendra Fadnavis in is in continuous touch with CS [Chief Secretaries], all these agencies and situation is under control,' the notice from CMO Maharashtra read.

As many as six villages of Shirol Taluka, one from Hatkanangle, Chikhali, Ambewadi area, and Kolhapur city have been submerged in water due to the overflow of Panchganga river.

Two NDRF teams are carrying out rescue operations and more teams of the Army, Navy, and coastguard have been directed to reach the affected areas of Yavatnal at the earliest.

Not only that, but the rescue officials have also been given two helicopters for carrying out relief and rescue operations.&nbsp;

So far, 1500 families have been evacuated from Yavatbnal and the administration is continuously monitoring the situation.

With the flood situation worsening in Maharashtra and its neighbouring states, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday dialled his Karnataka counterpart B S Yediyurappa and requested him to discharge water from the Almatti dam.

With the flood situation worsening in Maharashtra and its neighbouring states, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday dialled his Karnataka counterpart B S Yediyurappa and requested him to discharge water from the Almatti dam. 'CM Devendra Fadnavis also spoke to Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa and requested on Almatti discharge. He assured of positive actions,' the statement from CMO Maharashtra read. The Maharashtra Chief Minister also reviewed the flood situation in the Yavatnal area along with the Chief Secretary, Disaster Management Department and various Districts administration of the region. 'CM Devendra Fadnavis in is in continuous touch with CS [Chief Secretaries], all these agencies and situation is under control,' the notice from CMO Maharashtra read. As many as six villages of Shirol Taluka, one from Hatkanangle, Chikhali, Ambewadi area, and Kolhapur city have been submerged in water due to the overflow of Panchganga river. Two NDRF teams are carrying out rescue operations and more teams of the Army, Navy, and coastguard have been directed to reach the affected areas of Yavatnal at the earliest. Not only that, but the rescue officials have also been given two helicopters for carrying out relief and rescue operations. So far, 1500 families have been evacuated from Yavatbnal and the administration is continuously monitoring the situation.

Maharashtra chief minister dials his Karnataka counterpart on the flood situation

Season's highest tide of around 4.9 meters washed ashore around 15 metric ton of trash on the shores of Marine Line on Saturday.

After season's highest tide, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) collected a large amount of garbage on Saturday from the seashores.

Around 55 labourers, two large compactors, three dumpers, one JCB, three mini compactors were deployed in order to clear the garbage from the shores today.

BMC in a tweet informed about the high tide and weather in the city today.

"As per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), there is a warning of heavy rainfall today along with a high tide of 4.90 meters at 1.44 PM We appeal citizens to avoid venturing near the sea or walking in waterlogged areas. In any emergency call us on 1916," BMC tweeted on Saturday morning.

The weather forecasting agency, IMD observed that the impact of extensive rainfall was developed more towards suburbs, Thane and Navi Mumbai areas in the last 24 hours.

"Mumbai and surrounding areas received widespread rainfall in the last 24 hours with heavy to very heavy rainfall at few places. The impact was more towards suburbs, Thane, Navi Mumbai areas. Satellite, radar indicates rainfall will continue," the IMD predicted.

All government schools remained closed in Thane today as per the order issued by the Municipal Corporation in view of continuous rainfall in the city.

The Western Express Highway got waterlogged after heavy rainfall in Mumbai's Jogeshwari suburb yesterday.

Similarly, streets were inundated and houses submerged, after heavy rainfall in the Palghar town.Mumbai has been facing incessant rain and waterlogging for past few days.

Earlier, 17 flights had been diverted and several were delayed by 30 minutes on average due to heavy rains. Rail services were also hampered by the intermittent rains.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Season's highest tide of around 4.9 meters washed ashore around 15 metric ton of trash on the shores of Marine Line on Saturday. After season's highest tide, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) collected a large amount of garbage on Saturday from the seashores.

Season's highest tide of around 4.9 meters washed ashore around 15 metric ton of trash on the shores of Marine Line on Saturday. After season's highest tide, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) collected a large amount of garbage on Saturday from the seashores. Around 55 labourers, two large compactors, three dumpers, one JCB, three mini compactors were deployed in order to clear the garbage from the shores today. BMC in a tweet informed about the high tide and weather in the city today. "As per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), there is a warning of heavy rainfall today along with a high tide of 4.90 meters at 1.44 PM We appeal citizens to avoid venturing near the sea or walking in waterlogged areas. In any emergency call us on 1916," BMC tweeted on Saturday morning. The weather forecasting agency, IMD observed that the impact of extensive rainfall was developed more towards suburbs, Thane and Navi Mumbai areas in the last 24 hours. "Mumbai and surrounding areas received widespread rainfall in the last 24 hours with heavy to very heavy rainfall at few places. The impact was more towards suburbs, Thane, Navi Mumbai areas. Satellite, radar indicates rainfall will continue," the IMD predicted. All government schools remained closed in Thane today as per the order issued by the Municipal Corporation in view of continuous rainfall in the city. The Western Express Highway got waterlogged after heavy rainfall in Mumbai's Jogeshwari suburb yesterday. Similarly, streets were inundated and houses submerged, after heavy rainfall in the Palghar town.Mumbai has been facing incessant rain and waterlogging for past few days. Earlier, 17 flights had been diverted and several were delayed by 30 minutes on average due to heavy rains. Rail services were also hampered by the intermittent rains.

BMC collects approximately 15 metric ton of trash after season's highest tide in Mumbai

The India Meteorological Department on Saturday said that Satellite and radar indicate very heavy rainfall in Mumbai for the weekend.

"Strong winds with speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph likely to prevail along and off Maharashtra coast during next three days and along south Maharashtra -Goa coast during next four days," the IMD said.

"Rough to very rough sea conditions (wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph) are likely to prevail over the north Arabian sea, central and south-west Arabian Sea during next 5 days," IMD further added.

The red alert has been issued in many parts of Maharashtra.

Deputy&nbsp;Director General of India Met Department, KS Hosalikar tweeted, ''Rainfall Updates. With the development of low pressure area over Bay, this Saturday night and Sunday, Mumbai is very likely to get intense heavy rainfalls. Warnings are issued including West coast. TC and watch for updates please.''

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Rainfall Updates. 
With the development of low pressure area over Bay, this Saturday night and Sunday, Mumbai is very likely to get intense heavy rainfalls. 
Warnings are issued including West coast. 
TC and watch for updates please.<a href="https://t.co/tC52tQTo04">https://t.co/tC52tQTo04</a><a href="https://t.co/eAIy8vzk7e">https://t.co/eAIy8vzk7e</a> <a href="https://t.co/jxEa9dpUyP">pic.twitter.com/jxEa9dpUyP</a>
— K S Hosalikar (@Hosalikar_KS) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hosalikar_KS/status/1157105264077656064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Heavy rains lashed Mumbai in the last 24 hours, especially in the suburbs flooding several areas.

Mumbai-Goa national highway in Maharashtra was closed for traffic following a landslide caused by rainfall near Mauje Dhamandevi village in Raigarh.

The landslide occurred in the early hours of Saturday.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department on Saturday said that Satellite and radar indicate very heavy rainfall in Mumbai for the weekend. "Strong winds with speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph likely to prevail along and off Maharashtra coast during next three days and along south Maharashtra -Goa coast during next four days," the IMD said.

The India Meteorological Department on Saturday said that Satellite and radar indicate very heavy rainfall in Mumbai for the weekend. "Strong winds with speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph likely to prevail along and off Maharashtra coast during next three days and along south Maharashtra -Goa coast during next four days," the IMD said. "Rough to very rough sea conditions (wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph) are likely to prevail over the north Arabian sea, central and south-west Arabian Sea during next 5 days," IMD further added. The red alert has been issued in many parts of Maharashtra. Deputy Director General of India Met Department, KS Hosalikar tweeted, ''Rainfall Updates. With the development of low pressure area over Bay, this Saturday night and Sunday, Mumbai is very likely to get intense heavy rainfalls. Warnings are issued including West coast. TC and watch for updates please.'' Rainfall Updates. With the development of low pressure area over Bay, this Saturday night and Sunday, Mumbai is very likely to get intense heavy rainfalls. Warnings are issued including West coast. TC and watch for updates please.https://t.co/tC52tQTo04https://t.co/eAIy8vzk7e pic.twitter.com/jxEa9dpUyP — K S Hosalikar (@Hosalikar_KS) August 2, 2019 × Heavy rains lashed Mumbai in the last 24 hours, especially in the suburbs flooding several areas. Mumbai-Goa national highway in Maharashtra was closed for traffic following a landslide caused by rainfall near Mauje Dhamandevi village in Raigarh. The landslide occurred in the early hours of Saturday.

India Meteorological Department predicts intense rainfall for next 24 hours in Mumbai, warnings issued

At Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis "Maha Janadesh Yatra" here on Friday he said the decision about a cabinet berth to Aditya Thackerey will be decided by his party Shiv Sena.

"Whether Aditya Thackerey becomes a part of the cabinet or not hinges on his party`s decision to stay in the coalition," Fadnavis said while addressing a public meeting here.

"I always care for the coalition and that is why I have always taken the coalition partners into confidence on the distribution of seats," he added.

He further said that the opposition parties are in a depressed state in the run-up to the Assembly elections.

"We are engaging in a dialogue with the public while the opposition is engaging in a dialogue with EVMs. The opposition parties are in a depressed state and we have never seen such a state of the opposition in the past," he said.

Fadnavis also affirmed that his government started 90 irrigation projects for farmers in Vidarbha.

"We are very progressive in Vidarbha. We made electricity available for all Vidarbha farmers. We started 90 irrigation projects. We worked in all areas from roads to industries," Fadnavis said.

"We are making funds available for development in Vidarbha. We worked a lot on Uttar Maharashtra`s development but we did not discriminate with any area," he added.

Earlier, Fadnavis warned against deserting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that those who do so are not forgiven by the public.

"One who leaves Modi gets destroyed. The public never forgives him. (Jisne chhora Modi ka saath, uska hua satyanaash. Modi ka saath chhornewale ko janta kabhi maaf nahi karti)," Fadnavis said at "Maha Janadesh Yatra" in Katol.BJP is in alliance with Shiv Sena in the state.

The two parties have broken up just before the last Assembly Elections in the state due to disagreement over seat-sharing.When the BJP formed government in the state after the Assembly elections, Shiv Sena joined it sometime later.The two parties fought the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in alliance in the state winning 41 seats together.

&nbsp;

At Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis "Maha Janadesh Yatra" here on Friday he said the decision about a cabinet berth to Aditya Thackerey will be decided by his party Shiv Sena.

At Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis "Maha Janadesh Yatra" here on Friday he said the decision about a cabinet berth to Aditya Thackerey will be decided by his party Shiv Sena. "Whether Aditya Thackerey becomes a part of the cabinet or not hinges on his party`s decision to stay in the coalition," Fadnavis said while addressing a public meeting here. "I always care for the coalition and that is why I have always taken the coalition partners into confidence on the distribution of seats," he added. He further said that the opposition parties are in a depressed state in the run-up to the Assembly elections. "We are engaging in a dialogue with the public while the opposition is engaging in a dialogue with EVMs. The opposition parties are in a depressed state and we have never seen such a state of the opposition in the past," he said. Fadnavis also affirmed that his government started 90 irrigation projects for farmers in Vidarbha. "We are very progressive in Vidarbha. We made electricity available for all Vidarbha farmers. We started 90 irrigation projects. We worked in all areas from roads to industries," Fadnavis said. "We are making funds available for development in Vidarbha. We worked a lot on Uttar Maharashtra`s development but we did not discriminate with any area," he added. Earlier, Fadnavis warned against deserting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that those who do so are not forgiven by the public. "One who leaves Modi gets destroyed. The public never forgives him. (Jisne chhora Modi ka saath, uska hua satyanaash. Modi ka saath chhornewale ko janta kabhi maaf nahi karti)," Fadnavis said at "Maha Janadesh Yatra" in Katol.BJP is in alliance with Shiv Sena in the state. The two parties have broken up just before the last Assembly Elections in the state due to disagreement over seat-sharing.When the BJP formed government in the state after the Assembly elections, Shiv Sena joined it sometime later.The two parties fought the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in alliance in the state winning 41 seats together.

Cabinet berth to Aditya Thackerey will be party's decision: Devendra Fadnavis

After their first significant electoral victories in 1967, the then Jan Sangh, BJP’s precursor, embarked on a series of informal alliances with princely notables in Madhya Pradesh, who were not only deeply influential in central India, but were, until then, staunch supporters of the Congress Party. &nbsp;

Much later, in the 1980s and 1990s, LK Advani and others in the BJP, continued this policy, broad basing it to include a vast spectrum of people and celebrities, who were not in any way related to the RSS or traditional Sangh politics. &nbsp;

Cut to 2019, when BJP is in a pole position in Indian politics, particularly after Narendra Modi’s second emphatic victory, obviously there is a queue to join the party. &nbsp;In many ways, the contrast could not have been starker. Since the 1960s, when the Jan Sangh was a pariah, seeking reluctant allies, to 2019 when political leaders of all hues are making a beeline to get into the party, is a long-distance travelled. &nbsp;

However, the BJP needs to exercise caution with rampant poaching — read defection exercises — that has led to politicians of various shapes and sizes, lining up to join the party in power. These days, not a week goes without someone or the other, in many cases even political heavyweights, joining the BJP. &nbsp; &nbsp;To be sure, party-hopping in not a new phenomenon in this country, and well precedes the advent of Narendra Modi. Every general election or Assembly poll is invariably accompanied by individual politicians, mostly local notables, transferring their loyalties from one party to another.&nbsp;

This switch is usually based on the ‘winnability’ factor. If an anticipated swing in favour of one party is complemented by a person’s local appeal, success is more or less guaranteed. On their part, political parties aren’t exactly selective about admitting turncoats, who may have been attacking them just the other day!

The pre-election switches may be uneven, but not exactly unethical, because if the electorate decides to back rank defectors, there is nothing that anyone can say or do.&nbsp;

This process of aya Rams and gaya Rams merely reinforce — if indeed any reinforcement was needed — that political parties, given the extreme diversity and vastness of Indian society, can scarcely be ideological at all, even loosely.&nbsp;

It would, therefore, be a mistake to describe the BJP as an ideological party, not the least by its own supporters, let alone critiques on the Left-Liberal end of the spectrum. To propose therefore that the BJP is entirely controlled by the RSS, is inaccurate. This may have held true for the early Jana Sangh, but over the decades the BJP has evolved into something far bigger than just the Sangh Parivar. There is little doubt that the RSS’s inputs to the BJP’s ultimate execution of its programmes are very significant, but the party’s stalwarts like Advani believed long ago that to expand its footprints, the BJP would have to move beyond a strictly regimented existence, something that the Left in India was unable to do. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

A look at the BJP’s leadership today, particularly in states where it has come to establish a presence only recently, will help to elucidate this point. Local BJP units, many of them set up newly, have to factor in local issues and deal with new entrants into the party fold, who do not come from the traditional saffron fold. They could belong to the Congress or even a regional party. To be sure, the RSS does provide the cohesion needed, but BJP’s horizontal, nationwide expansion, is its own doing.&nbsp;

Typically of India, the situation varies from one state to the other. In West Bengal and Tripura, the BJP was a very small party until quite recently. It constituted individuals associated with the Sangh Parivar, not all of them familiar with the ways of conducting electoral politics.

Many individuals from the Trinamool Congress and Congress who joined the BJP after 2014 or even just before the 2019 election, were better equipped to fight elections than the old-timers. &nbsp;

It would be fair to say that the remarkably good performance of the BJP in these two states, is thanks in the main to these new inductees, who skillfully harnessed the larger popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for electoral gains.&nbsp;

Such political integration is, however, not without its downside. In West Bengal, after the BJP’s electoral triumph in the Lok Sabha elections, there have been tensions in the local party unit on differing perceptions of Sangh old-timers and recent entrants. &nbsp;

A look at recent defections to the BJP in Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra, presents a different side of the problem. The implications of destabilising the HD Kumara Swamy government in Bangalore is being attributed to a lack of political ethics, because the provocation was triggered by Modi’s resounding mandate.

Yet, it would be instructive to remember that the Congress — Janata Dal (S) coalition that came into existence after the Assembly election in Karnataka last year, was itself steeped in rank opportunism. Both the parties had contested the polls bitterly against each other. Under the circumstances, replacing one unprincipled combination with another may hardly be deemed unethical.&nbsp;

Having said that, the BJP would be well-advised not to lose its original hallmark — party with a difference. The 2019 victory was prompted by peoples’expectations and coming so soon after that mandate, the murky games in Karnataka, Goa and poll-bound Maharashtra could make the party lose its moral sheen. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-defections-and-poaching-2778104">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

After their first significant electoral victories in 1967, the then Jan Sangh, BJP’s precursor, embarked on a series of informal alliances with princely notables in Madhya Pradesh, who were not only deeply influential in central India, but were, until then, staunch supporters of the Congress Party.

After their first significant electoral victories in 1967, the then Jan Sangh, BJP’s precursor, embarked on a series of informal alliances with princely notables in Madhya Pradesh, who were not only deeply influential in central India, but were, until then, staunch supporters of the Congress Party. Much later, in the 1980s and 1990s, LK Advani and others in the BJP, continued this policy, broad basing it to include a vast spectrum of people and celebrities, who were not in any way related to the RSS or traditional Sangh politics. Cut to 2019, when BJP is in a pole position in Indian politics, particularly after Narendra Modi’s second emphatic victory, obviously there is a queue to join the party. In many ways, the contrast could not have been starker. Since the 1960s, when the Jan Sangh was a pariah, seeking reluctant allies, to 2019 when political leaders of all hues are making a beeline to get into the party, is a long-distance travelled. However, the BJP needs to exercise caution with rampant poaching — read defection exercises — that has led to politicians of various shapes and sizes, lining up to join the party in power. These days, not a week goes without someone or the other, in many cases even political heavyweights, joining the BJP. To be sure, party-hopping in not a new phenomenon in this country, and well precedes the advent of Narendra Modi. Every general election or Assembly poll is invariably accompanied by individual politicians, mostly local notables, transferring their loyalties from one party to another. This switch is usually based on the ‘winnability’ factor. If an anticipated swing in favour of one party is complemented by a person’s local appeal, success is more or less guaranteed. On their part, political parties aren’t exactly selective about admitting turncoats, who may have been attacking them just the other day! The pre-election switches may be uneven, but not exactly unethical, because if the electorate decides to back rank defectors, there is nothing that anyone can say or do. This process of aya Rams and gaya Rams merely reinforce — if indeed any reinforcement was needed — that political parties, given the extreme diversity and vastness of Indian society, can scarcely be ideological at all, even loosely. It would, therefore, be a mistake to describe the BJP as an ideological party, not the least by its own supporters, let alone critiques on the Left-Liberal end of the spectrum. To propose therefore that the BJP is entirely controlled by the RSS, is inaccurate. This may have held true for the early Jana Sangh, but over the decades the BJP has evolved into something far bigger than just the Sangh Parivar. There is little doubt that the RSS’s inputs to the BJP’s ultimate execution of its programmes are very significant, but the party’s stalwarts like Advani believed long ago that to expand its footprints, the BJP would have to move beyond a strictly regimented existence, something that the Left in India was unable to do. A look at the BJP’s leadership today, particularly in states where it has come to establish a presence only recently, will help to elucidate this point. Local BJP units, many of them set up newly, have to factor in local issues and deal with new entrants into the party fold, who do not come from the traditional saffron fold. They could belong to the Congress or even a regional party. To be sure, the RSS does provide the cohesion needed, but BJP’s horizontal, nationwide expansion, is its own doing. Typically of India, the situation varies from one state to the other. In West Bengal and Tripura, the BJP was a very small party until quite recently. It constituted individuals associated with the Sangh Parivar, not all of them familiar with the ways of conducting electoral politics. Many individuals from the Trinamool Congress and Congress who joined the BJP after 2014 or even just before the 2019 election, were better equipped to fight elections than the old-timers. It would be fair to say that the remarkably good performance of the BJP in these two states, is thanks in the main to these new inductees, who skillfully harnessed the larger popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for electoral gains. Such political integration is, however, not without its downside. In West Bengal, after the BJP’s electoral triumph in the Lok Sabha elections, there have been tensions in the local party unit on differing perceptions of Sangh old-timers and recent entrants. A look at recent defections to the BJP in Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra, presents a different side of the problem. The implications of destabilising the HD Kumara Swamy government in Bangalore is being attributed to a lack of political ethics, because the provocation was triggered by Modi’s resounding mandate. Yet, it would be instructive to remember that the Congress — Janata Dal (S) coalition that came into existence after the Assembly election in Karnataka last year, was itself steeped in rank opportunism. Both the parties had contested the polls bitterly against each other. Under the circumstances, replacing one unprincipled combination with another may hardly be deemed unethical. Having said that, the BJP would be well-advised not to lose its original hallmark — party with a difference. The 2019 victory was prompted by peoples’expectations and coming so soon after that mandate, the murky games in Karnataka, Goa and poll-bound Maharashtra could make the party lose its moral sheen. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

BJP now sees politicians of all denominations lining up to join its fold

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