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The devastating impact of heavy rainfall in Kerala has resulted in catastrophic landslides in the Wayanad district, claiming the lives of at least 143 individuals. The tragic incident has left hundreds more feared trapped amidst ongoing rescue operations led by government agencies. The magnitude of the disaster is evident in the numerous reports from families who have tragically lost loved ones in the landslides and remain unable to locate them.
The Indian Army has played a crucial role in the rescue efforts, successfully evacuating over 1,000 people from the affected areas. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with state police, forest officials, and volunteers, have also been actively involved in the rescue operations, with approximately 500 to 600 personnel deployed to the site. To further enhance the rescue operations, Naval teams and helicopters from the Indian Air Force have been mobilized to assist the NDRF and the Army. Brigadier Arjun Seagan, overseeing the rescue efforts, stated that airlifting stranded individuals would commence as soon as weather conditions improve.
The relentless rainfall in the region, coupled with blocked roads, has significantly hampered relief efforts. Kerala experienced an astounding 372 mm rainfall in a 24-hour period before three major landslides struck the Wayanad district within a mere four hours. The meteorological department has issued a heavy rain alert for Wayanad and several other districts, including Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasargod, for the next few days. An orange alert has also been issued for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts.
In response to the disaster, Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, offering the LDF government all necessary assistance. He also directed BJP chief JP Nadda to ensure the active participation of party workers in rescue operations. The Prime Minister's Office has announced compensation packages for the victims' families, with Rs 2 lakh being provided to the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 to the injured.
The landslides have wreaked havoc, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Numerous houses have been destroyed, water bodies have swelled beyond capacity, and countless trees have been uprooted. The picturesque villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha have been isolated from the rest of the region, stranding a significant number of people. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a high-level meeting to assess the rescue operations, review health and safety arrangements at relief camps, and ensure a coordinated response to the ongoing crisis.
Source: 143 Dead In Wayanad Landslides, Several Still Trapped Amid Heavy Rain Alert