Kerala Floods: Japanese PM, FM extend condolences

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, along with the Foreign Affairs Minister Taro Kono, on Monday, extended their condolences over the devastating floods that have ravaged Kerala and parts of Karnataka.

"We would like to inform you that in the wake of the flooding and damages caused by widespread heavy rain which has hit southern states of India, including Kerala, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, and Mr.Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, sent messages respectively to H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister, and H.E. Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, External Affairs Minister, which extend condolences to the affected people and wishes for rapid recovery and reconstruction of the affected areas and convey Japan's readiness to provide any assistance," read a statement from the Embassy of Japan.

Meanwhile, the Japanese ambassador to India, Kenji Hiramatsu also issued a statement, saying, "I am deeply saddened by the news of tragic loss of many innocent lives and thousands of people being forced out of their homes due to the recent heavy rainfall, widespread flooding and landslides in various states, especially the State of Kerala."

"On behalf of the people of Japan, I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of India. Our thoughts and sincere prayers are with the people of India and the unfortunate victims, especially those who lost their near and dear ones, in this difficult time. Japan is ready to provide any assistance when needed by the Government of India," he added.

As many as 357 people have lost their lives in the worst floods in over a century in Kerala so far, with the state incurring a loss to the tune of Rs 19,512 crore.

Also, incessant rains since August 14 have lashed Karnataka, resulting in landslides and flooding in many parts of the state. Over 11,000 houses have been damaged, with at least seven people having been killed and a further four missing.