This situation may pose a threat to the availability of vegetables in the southern parts of the state, especially in Kochi. Several lorry drivers have started offloading perishable vegetables to the local markets in Palakkad.
With trucks not reaching Aluva and Ernakulam markets, several retail shops in Kochi have started running out of stocks. “Our vehicles are stuck in Thrissur and Palakkad. Since there is a shortage of vegetables, we have stopped distributing them to dealers. We have imposed some restriction on the sale of vegetables, so that they will be available to all those affected by flood,” said a wholesale vegetables dealer in the Ernakulam market.
India has been hit by the worst floods in a century, killing hundreds and forcing 200,000 civilians into relief camps, with the tolls expected to rise. The floods in the Indian state of Kerala have so far killed over 300 people, officials say.
As the southwestern coastal state’s chief minister sought military reinforcements to boost rescue efforts, a disaster management official said that, since the monsoon season started about three months ago, more than 320 people had died due to flooding and landslides.
According to newindianexpress.com, as the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.
