The Indian Army has ramped up its Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in Wayanad, Kerala, following multiple severe landslides on 30 July 2024. Responding to an urgent request from the civil administration, six HADR columns, consisting of around 500 personnel including medical staff, bridging equipment, and rescue dogs, were deployed early on 30 July. So far, the Army has rescued approximately 1,000 individuals, provided medical assistance, and moved them to safer locations. The bodies of 86 deceased individuals have also been recovered.
A “Command and Control Centre” has been established in Kozhikode, led by Major General VT Mathew, General Officer Commanding, Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area, with Brigadier Arjun Segan. Brigadier Segan conducted an early morning reconnaissance of the affected areas and directed the Army columns in their rescue efforts, which span a six-kilometer stretch impacted by landslides.
The HADR troops were mobilized from Kannur, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram. Initial responders included two columns from the DSC Centre in Kannur and the 122 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) MADRAS in Kozhikode, totaling 225 personnel, who began operations alongside the NDRF and other agencies. Additionally, two medical teams and other personnel, numbering 135, were airlifted from Trivandrum to Kozhikode by AN-32 and C-130 aircraft to bolster the rescue efforts.
The Kerala State Government requested assistance for bridge construction, leading to the deployment of an Army Engineer Task Force from the Madras Engineer Group and Centre (MEG & Centre) with 123 personnel, 150 feet of Bailey Bridge, three JCBs, and other equipment. Construction of a bridge on the Meepadi–Choormala Road is ongoing, with earth-moving equipment being airlifted to the other side of the stream. A footbridge was completed overnight between 30 and 31 July.
A C-17 aircraft has transported another 110 feet of Bailey Bridge from Engineers Stores Depot, Delhi Cantt, and three Search and Rescue Dog Teams to Kannur for further deployment. Additional resources are being evaluated based on aerial and ground reconnaissance and the civil administration’s needs.
Throughout the day, IAF helicopters have conducted multiple sorties to drop food and relief supplies and evacuate civilians from isolated areas. Naval aviation assets have supported the transportation of SDRF and state officials. Multiple aircraft are on standby in Thiruvananthapuram, Sulur, and Thanjavur for immediate air rescue operations.
In addition to medical aid and first aid, the ECHS Polyclinic in Kalpetta is providing doctors, nursing assistants, and ambulances to assist the flood operations columns.
The Indian Army remains dedicated to assisting stranded citizens and is tirelessly working to ensure everyone’s safety. The Army is fully committed to supporting Kerala during this challenging time, with rescue teams continuously providing relief and rescue operations in the affected areas.
