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Salutes R. Rajesh's Supreme Sacrifice, Urges Vigilance in Kochi Flood Prevention
The on Thursday paid a moving tribute to R. Rajesh, a volunteer who lost his life while rescuing another person during the recent floods in Kannur, describing his sacrifice as "supreme and unparalleled." Justice Devan Ramachandran made the observations while hearing a concerning the upkeep of the Perandoor Canal in Kochi.
The court also acknowledged that Kochi has largely escaped serious flooding despite recent heavy rains, but cautioned that this respite should not be mistaken for victory, directing authorities to remain vigilant and continue preventive measures.
A Hero's Last Act of Courage
The court was informed by the that R. Rajesh handed over his jacket to another person during a rescue operation near Meenthully Island in Kannur, ensuring that person's safety, but was himself swept away by the strong current.
"When disaster strikes, men and women become capable of acts of pure heroism,"
the court observed.
"Sri. R. Rajesh is a true hero, who exemplifies that the greatest love of all is the love that sacrifices all — that which is done out of love for another."
The court further stated:
"The sacrifice of Sri. R. Rajesh is supreme and unparalleled. Words fail when we think about his family. The Government certainly must respond appositely, reflecting the extreme grief of the civil society."
The court concluded its tribute by saluting
"the bravery of the pure soul"
and standing in prayer with his family.
Small Battles Won, But the War Ahead
The , filed in connection with the upkeep of the Perandoor Canal, saw the report that despite near-heavy rains in recent days, incidents of flooding in Kochi have been scarce. Some very low-lying areas within the city limits experienced waterlogging, but the water receded after the rain stopped.
"This information is certainly gratifying; but we are nowhere near calling it a victory. Small battles may have been won, but the war is still ahead of us!"
the court remarked.
The court noted that the 's affirmed that intensive cleaning work had been carried out prior to and during the monsoon, with assurances that this could continue.
Persistent Concerns and Directions
Despite the progress, the court noted that complaints persist regarding certain drains and canals not being fully cleaned. Dr. Pradeep mentioned that even the Thevara-Perandoor canal is seen with large amounts of floating hyacinth. The court also flagged concerns about railway culverts that may need to be redone to ensure proper cleaning through jetting processes.
The court directed the to file a report indicating all actions being taken and proposals requiring consideration. The matter was listed for .
A Word of Appreciation
The court reserved words of appreciation for the cleaning staff of the Corporation and other stakeholders of the
, noting that the
have acted
"much beyond their brief and professional commitments"
to be on the streets almost regularly.
"Every stakeholder must remind themselves that we work for the people and that the city requires to be cared for, especially because it remains perilously close to sea level, or perhaps even lower,"
the court concluded.
The court also recorded the submission of the ' that the issue of railway culverts has not been lost sight of and that they will respond appropriately.
