India deploys troops in south as deadly floods worsen
India on Wednesday deployed troops to Tamil Nadu and closed the main airport after heavy rains exacerbated weeks of flooding that have killed nearly 200 people in the southern coastal state, AFP reported.
Thousands of passengers were left stranded at the international airport in the state capital Chennai after flooding on the runway forced the cancellation of dozens of flights.
Authorities said thousands of rescuers carrying diving equipment, inflatable boats and medical equipment were also battling to evacuate victims across the flooded state.
"At least 10,000 police personnel and trained swimmers are being deployed to help with the rescue effort," said Chennai police chief JK Tripathy.
He said 186 people had been reported killed in the floods, now in their fourth week.