Bengaluru, Aug 19: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held talks over phone with Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, assuring him of all-possible assistance from the Centre to expedite the relief and rescue operations.

The rural district of Kodagu is worst affected by the floods, caused due to incessant downpour over the past ten days. At least six people have been killed in the inundating floods, whereas, over 50,000 have been shifted to relief camps.

The amount of casualties and displaced populace could be higher as the rescue operation is currently underway. Survivors, while speaking to local media, said dozens of houses have been marooned under mud which were set loose due to the landslides.

"Over 1000 security personnel including NDRF, Navy, Army, Fire Dept, Home Guards etc are involved in rescue operations. Air Force is lifting stranded people and dropping relief material. 200 NCC cadets also working. We are working non stop," CM Kumaraswamy said on Saturday.

The worst affected areas in Kodagu are Kottamudi, Galibeedu, Karnangeri, Katakeri, Mukkodlu, where the IAF is using M17 helicopters for air-lifting the stranded victims. From neighbouring Somwarpet and Virajpet, the Air Force rescued nearly nearly 3,200 people.

"Banks have been told to stock up ATMs. Officials directed to give a list of roads which are damaged, and start repair work. Many officials from other areas have been shifted to Kodagu," Kumaraswamy said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 19, 2018 06:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).