The tragic landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad have claimed 344 lives, with rescue operations ongoing as teams use deep search radars to locate survivors trapped under the debris. This devastating disaster has prompted a massive response from various agencies.
Rescue Efforts and Deployment of Advanced Technology
In the aftermath of the landslides, the Kerala government requested the Centre’s assistance to expedite rescue operations. Deep search radars, including one Xaver radar from Northern Command and four Reeco radars from the Tiranga Mountain Rescue Organisation in Delhi, were airlifted to Wayanad. These advanced tools are crucial for detecting survivors under the rubble.
Key Rescue Details:
- Number of Rescuers: Over 1,300 rescuers are engaged in the search, utilizing heavy machinery and sophisticated equipment.
- Current Status: The rescue operations, led by the Indian Army, Kerala Police, and emergency services, are now in their fifth day.
Government Actions and Guidelines
The Kerala government has implemented guidelines for handling the remains of the deceased. Each body or body part is assigned an identification number, which must be recorded in all associated documents, photographs, or videos. The police are tasked with identifying the bodies, but if identification proves difficult, the district administration will handle further actions after 72 hours.
Recent Developments:
- Identification and Burial: Three unidentified bodies were cremated at the Kalpatta public crematorium as part of state guidelines.
- High-Profile Visits: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Wayanad and promised to raise the issue with the government, pledging to build over 100 houses for the affected families.
Additional Relief Efforts and Government Notifications
In a notable rescue operation, Kerala forest department officials saved six children from a remote tribal settlement after an eight-hour effort. A family of four was also rescued from their home in Mundakkai, one of the hardest-hit areas.
The Central Government has issued a draft notification to designate over 56,800 square kilometers of the Western Ghats, including 13 villages in Wayanad, as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). This measure aims to protect the region from future environmental impacts.
Weather Alert:
- IMD Forecast: A yellow alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for Wayanad, predicting continued rainfall until August 6.
