Post-mortem of the Kerala floods 2018 tragedy

Abstract

After more than two weeks of relentless rain, in early August, 2018, Kerala, often referred as ‘God’s own country’ a State at the southern tip of India, known internationally for its scenic green landscapes, tourists spots and backwaters, is left with over 1 million people in relief camps and close to 400 reported dead- the number expected to be much higher as many areas remain inaccessible. The coastal strip wedged between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats mountain chain is prone to inundation. Unusually heavy monsoon rains have got the entire State of Kerala in the grip of a massive, unprecedented flood: the last time anything like this has happened was in 1924. Even before the rains, Kerala’s economy presented a mixed picture: relatively higher per capita income, but slow growth and high unemployment rates. As torrential rains abated in Kerala, the major question confronting the State and its unfortunate citizens is an assessment of the colossal loss of property, agriculture and infrastructure and the focus has turned towards the short-term negative implications and how will it rebuild its economy. There were evidently many political, economic, social and managerial lessons to take away from the disaster. The paper will describe the magnitude of the disaster in Kerala and the impact on the human population.