Kannur, August 5: Kerala is mourning the loss of R. Rajesh, a volunteer and swimming instructor who sacrificed his life while rescuing a flood victim in Kannur during the ongoing monsoon disaster. Rajesh lost his life after successfully saving a 61-year-old man from the swollen Kariangode River near Meenthully Island, in an act of courage that has been widely hailed as an extraordinary example of selfless service.
According to officials involved in the rescue operation, Rajesh was part of a volunteer team assisting residents stranded by severe flooding caused by continuous heavy rainfall. During the rescue mission, he managed to pull the elderly man to safety after the victim was caught in the strong river current. Realising that the rescued man was at greater risk, Rajesh reportedly removed his own life jacket and placed it on the survivor to ensure he could safely reach the rescue boat.
Moments later, Rajesh himself was swept away by the powerful current. Rescue personnel from the Fire and Rescue Services, local volunteers, and disaster response teams launched an intensive search operation despite challenging weather conditions. After several days of searching, his body was recovered on Tuesday, bringing a tragic end to the operation.
The incident has drawn widespread tributes from government officials, rescue agencies, and members of the public. Many described Rajesh as a symbol of courage and compassion who placed another person’s life above his own. Social media has been flooded with messages honouring his sacrifice, with many calling him a true hero of Kerala’s flood relief efforts.
Kannur district has been among the worst affected by this year’s monsoon, with overflowing rivers, widespread flooding, and continuous heavy rainfall forcing evacuations in several low-lying areas. Hundreds of volunteers have been working alongside the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, Police, and local authorities to rescue stranded residents and deliver essential supplies to relief camps.
The Kerala Government is expected to honour Rajesh’s bravery, while local residents have remembered him as a dedicated swimming instructor who was always willing to help others in times of need. His sacrifice has become a powerful reminder of the risks faced by volunteers and rescue personnel who continue to protect lives during the state’s ongoing flood emergency.
News as reported
