In another example of the outpouring generosity that has become a striking feature of the Kerala flood relief work, a fisherman got down on all fours in flood waters, allowing the rescued people to climb onto the boat by stepping on his back.
A Twitter user on Sunday, shared the video of the fisherman’s extraordinary act.
A scene from #Thrissur in #Kerala. As some of those who were rescued found it difficult to climb onto a boat, a fisherman voluntarily kneeled down, so that they could use his back as a step. #Humanity #KeralaFlood #KeralaFloodRelief #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/PWZiEB9JNX
— Paul Oommen (@Paul_Oommen) August 19, 2018
Fishermen in Kerala are playing a key role in the rescue work, using their own boats to traverse flood waters and rescuing trapped people
“Fishermen rescued many people with their boats. They were able to rescue 16,000 people in the region using their boats. Their role in this rescue mission was immense,” a statement issued by the Alappuzha District Collectorate said
Their efforts have been recognized by the Kerala government, and CM Vijayan has also promised to compensate them for the efforts.
CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced that the Government will honour fishing workers who were part of the rescue mission. All boats will be granted ₹3000 for each day of their work. Government will also bear the repairing costs of boats damaged during the mission. #KeralaFloods
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 19, 2018
Kerala is witnessing the worst floods in 100 years, with all rivers in spate. According to an Economic Times report, the death toll reached 372 on Sunday morning and over six lakh people are in relief camps.