The death toll in the Kerala floods would have been much higher but for the timely help provided by the military, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said. The calamity would have been greater if the armed forces hadn't worked hand in hand with the Kerala government, Vijayan said at a formal farewell function held here on Sunday in honour of Central forces which played a key role in rescue and relief operations.

"We could directly witness the bold initiatives they took to rescue those who were stranded in the flood waters," said Vijayan at the function held at Air Force Station at Shanghumukham. He appreciated the military and paramilitary forces who saved the helpless, braving adverse circumstances, an official statement said. "All that we can say is that your services will be kept in mind in the times to come too, with gratitude and appreciation."