Hundreds of troops and local authorities are trying hard to evacuate tens of thousands of residents trapped in the unprecedented deluge in Kerala.
The state authorities confirmed that more than 324 people have died already in the natural calamity, and over 300,000 are homeless. Thousands of people have been airlifted from rooftops and other secluded areas.
In an attempt to provide help to their homeland, community groups and associations from the migrant Kerala community in Australia have come up with fundraising events and campaigns.
Two members from the community have started an online petition, on change.org, requesting the help of the federal government in rescue and relief operations. Thousands of people have signed the petition addressing prime minister Malcolm Turnbull and foreign minister Julie Bishop.
Online petition to Malcolm Turn Bull to help Kerala attracts 1000's Source: Change.org
Expecting 50,000 signs
Muhasin Basheer who started the petition said that he was expecting more than 50000 signatures.
"According to our last census, there are more than 50K Malayalees (community from Kerala) in Australia, and I believe every Malayalee will sign it," Muhasin told SBS Malayalam.
"We kindly request you to collaborate with The Kerala State Government and to offer any possible support; [sic] High end machinery, any advanced technical aid, financial aid, medicines, food supplies or any thing you could do to save our people." says the petition.
Muhassin is optimistic about receiving aid from the Australian government.
DFAT monitoring the situation
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says the Australian Consulate-General in Chennai has contacted registered Australians in the most affected flooded areas of Kerala and has confirmed their safety.
Landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains have cut off road links and submerging several villages.
"The Consulate has not received any requests for assistance but is in close contact with local authorities to monitor the situation.
"DFAT’s travel advice for India has been updated with information on the flooding. We recommend Australians in the region follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media. We also advise Australians to contact their travel providers following the temporary closure of the airport in Kochi. Australians in the affected area should contact their family or friends to let them know they are safe."
