Tragedy in Wayanad
At least 143 people have lost their lives and around 128 have been injured following a series of devastating landslides that struck Kerala’s Wayanad district. The calamity unfolded within four hours amidst relentless rainfall.
Rescue Efforts Intensify
Rescue operations are in full swing as hundreds more are feared trapped. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) works alongside naval teams and Air Force helicopters to locate and rescue those affected. The Defence Ministry has dispatched additional disaster relief teams and rescue dog units to aid in the efforts.
Challenging Conditions
Kerala has been grappling with continuous heavy rain, complicating relief efforts due to blocked roads. The state received 372 mm of rainfall just 24 hours before the landslides. The weather department has predicted more rain in Wayanad and other districts over the next few days, with Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasargod districts under alert. An orange alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts.
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of full support from the central government. He has also directed BJP chief JP Nadda to mobilize party workers for rescue efforts. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced financial compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of those deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Impacted Areas
The landslides have caused extensive damage in Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. Numerous roads have collapsed, a bridge has been swept away, and many areas have become inaccessible. The picturesque villages are now isolated, with houses destroyed, water bodies overflowing, and trees uprooted.
Relief Measures
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting to review the rescue operations and ensure health and safety arrangements at relief camps. The state Health Department has established a control room for emergency assistance, reachable at helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833.
Ongoing Alert
As the region braces for more rain, the focus remains on rescue and relief efforts to mitigate the impact of this disaster. The resilience and coordination among various agencies are crucial in these challenging times.
