Wayanad Landslides: 167 Dead, Rescue Ops in Full Gear

Wayanad Landslides: Number of Dead Rises to 167, Rescue Operations Underway

The devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, have claimed the lives of at least 167 people. The natural disaster, which struck on Tuesday, has left over 200 individuals injured and has caused widespread destruction across the region. Rescue operations are in full swing as multiple agencies, including the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), work tirelessly to save lives.

Overview of the Disaster

The catastrophic event unfolded with three massive landslides hitting Wayanad within a mere four hours. Heavy rainfall triggered these landslides, causing significant damage in the villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. Many residents were swept away by the Chaliyar River, adding to the extent of the tragedy.

In response to the disaster, the district has established 45 relief camps, which are currently housing 3,069 displaced individuals. The camps provide essential relief, but the scale of the destruction continues to pose serious challenges.

Rescue Operations and Response

Efforts to rescue trapped individuals are ongoing, with various agencies and the Army mobilized for the task. On Day 2 of the rescue operations, teams are working around the clock to search through collapsed buildings and debris. The Army has deployed 225 personnel to aid in these efforts, with additional units moving from Thiruvananthapuram and Bengaluru to Calicut.

A temporary bridge, erected to connect Chooralmala and Mundakkai after the original was washed away, has been crucial in rescue operations. Over 1,000 people have been rescued using this structure.

The NDRF has issued warnings of potential further landslides due to ongoing heavy rainfall. Helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been established for those seeking assistance or information.

Government and Relief Measures

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has declared a two-day state mourning to honor the victims. He is overseeing the rescue efforts and has called for a comprehensive review of the situation. The Health Minister of Kerala, Veena George, experienced a minor accident en route to Wayanad but is receiving medical care at Manjeri Medical College in Malappuram.

The weather department has issued a red alert for heavy rain across several districts, including Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasargod. This alert is expected to remain in effect as the region continues to face adverse weather conditions.

In a show of solidarity, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced a financial aid of Rs 5 crore to Kerala. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Office has declared a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster.

Cancellation of Visits

Political figures Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi had planned to visit Wayanad but have canceled their trip due to the severe weather conditions making landing impossible.

The situation remains fluid, and authorities are working diligently to manage the crisis and provide aid to those affected by this devastating natural disaster.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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