Kerala Gives State Honours to Flood Rescue Volunteer Rajesh R

The Story in Brief

Kerala granted state honours to Rajesh R, a swimming and disaster rescue instructor who drowned while saving a stranded farmer during floods in Kannur’s Cherupuzha. Chief minister V D Satheesan visited Rajesh’s family in Kalliyoor, Thiruvananthapuram, and offered condolences. He said the government would fund the completion of Rajesh’s unfinished house.

On August 1, Rajesh and volunteers Shibin and Jithin rescued 61-year-old farmer S Benny from farmland near the Kerala-Karnataka border. Rajesh gave Benny his life jacket after seeing him struggle in the current. Benny and the two volunteers reached safety, but Rajesh was swept away. His body was recovered on August 4.

The Indian Opinion

Rajesh’s actions show the risks faced by volunteers during flood rescues. State honours and support for his family recognise that sacrifice, while assistance to complete his house offers practical help. The available account gives limited details about rescue protocols and equipment. It is therefore best to remember his courage without making broader claims about flood management based on one incident.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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