At least 24 people have been killed, and hundreds are feared trapped after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday morning amid heavy rain. The catastrophe has led to an extensive rescue operation involving multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army.
The worst-affected areas include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages. In a statement, the Indian Army confirmed the deployment of 225 personnel, including medical teams, to assist in the rescue efforts. Additionally, two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), have been put into service to aid the operations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and assured him of all possible assistance from the central government to deal with the crisis. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed in the landslides, while those injured will receive Rs 50,000.
A video shared by West Coast Weatherman on X depicted the devastation caused by the landslides in the picturesque district. Several roads have been swept away, and the landscape is dotted with uprooted trees and destroyed huts.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized the state’s commitment to coordinating all possible rescue operations in Wayanad. “Since we got to know of the incident, the government systems have joined together in the rescue operation. Ministers will visit Wayanad and lead the activities,” he said. A control room has been established, and helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued for emergency assistance.
In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi expressed his deep anguish over the landslides and the loss of lives. “I am deeply anguished by the massive landslides near Meppadi in Wayanad. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones. I hope those still trapped are brought to safety soon,” he wrote. Gandhi also mentioned his discussions with the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured him that rescue operations are underway. He has requested coordination among all agencies, the establishment of a control room, and timely updates on any assistance needed for the relief efforts.
Furthermore, Rahul Gandhi has pledged to speak with Union Ministers to secure all possible assistance for Wayanad. He urged all United Democratic Front (UDF) workers to assist the administration in the rescue and relief operations.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for the northern districts of Kerala, including Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram, which are expected to receive heavy rain. The department has also advised locals and tourists to exercise extreme caution in the wake of the adverse weather conditions.
