Wayanad Landslides Update: 256 Dead, 200+ Missing

Massive Landslides Hit Wayanad Amid Heavy Rainfall

On Tuesday, devastating landslides struck Wayanad, Kerala, following intense rainfall. The landslides severely impacted the villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, resulting in a tragic death toll of at least 256, with over 200 individuals reported missing. The disaster has wreaked havoc in the hilly region near Meppadi.

Rescue Operations and Ongoing Efforts

According to Health Minister Veena George, the Army has rescued approximately 1,000 individuals, and the search continues for the 220 people still unaccounted for. Rescue operations have now entered their third day. To manage the humanitarian crisis, a Command and Control Centre has been established in Kozhikode by the Army to oversee Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts.

Relief Measures and Support

The Kerala government has mobilized significant resources for the relief operations. “We have deployed 1,500 Army personnel and forensic surgeons to aid in the rescue and recovery efforts,” stated Health Minister Veena George. Efforts are focused on providing psychological support to the survivors and controlling potential outbreaks of contagious diseases.

The Army’s Engineer Task Force is constructing a temporary Bailey bridge in Chooralmala to improve access to affected areas. Additionally, an Indian Air Force plane has delivered another Bailey bridge and three search and rescue dog teams to Kannur to bolster the search efforts.

Government and International Response

An all-party meeting, led by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is scheduled for Thursday in Wayanad to discuss the ongoing situation. Prominent figures, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, are expected to visit the relief camps in Wayanad to offer their support.

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in several districts, including Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasargod. There is a continued risk of additional landslides due to ongoing rainfall.

International Condolences

In the wake of the disaster, various countries, including the US, Russia, China, and Iran, have extended their condolences to the victims and their families. The global community is closely watching the situation and offering support.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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