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The devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, have claimed the lives of 24 people and left hundreds trapped, highlighting the grim reality of the monsoon season's impact on the region. The tragedy has prompted a swift response from both the state and national governments, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi assuring the Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, of full support in the relief and rescue operations.
The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed in the disaster, along with Rs 50,000 for those injured. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Mr. Modi also directed BJP president JP Nadda to ensure party workers contribute to the rescue efforts, further demonstrating the national level of concern for the affected population.
Chief Minister Vijayan, who has been closely monitoring the situation, stated that all agencies are united in the rescue operation, with state ministers coordinating the efforts. Alongside the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Kannur Defence Security Corps is also participating in the rescue operations. The Chief Minister further announced that two Air Force helicopters would be deployed to Wayanad to expedite rescue efforts, highlighting the importance of aerial support in accessing remote and affected areas.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, former Wayanad MP, expressed deep sorrow over the calamity, offering condolences to the bereaved families and expressing hope for the safe rescue of those trapped. Mr. Gandhi has been actively engaged, speaking with the Chief Minister and the district collector to ensure coordinated rescue efforts and the establishment of a control room to facilitate communication and streamline relief operations.
The affected areas include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, with numerous roads collapsing and a bridge being swept away, making access to several areas difficult. Health Minister Veena George, while acknowledging the challenges posed by weather conditions, stressed the importance of re-establishing connectivity and deploying helicopters to facilitate rescue efforts.
UDF MLA T Siddique highlighted the complexities of the situation, noting that information regarding those missing or deceased is limited due to the inaccessibility of several areas. NDRF personnel are actively trying to reach the affected locations to assist in the rescue operations. The scale of the tragedy and the ongoing challenges underscore the need for sustained and coordinated efforts from all involved parties to ensure the safety and well-being of those impacted by the landslides.
Source: 24 Killed In Wayanad Landslides, Hundreds Trapped After Roads Swept Away