The death toll from the devastating landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district has risen to 256, with over 200 people reported missing. The landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Health Minister Veena George confirmed the figures, adding that more than 200 people have been injured. Rescue operations, now in their third day, have seen the Army rescue around 1,000 individuals, with 220 people still unaccounted for.
The landslides occurred on Tuesday after heavy rainfall triggered three massive slides in the Wayanad district. The worst-affected areas include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages. In response to the disaster, the Army has established a Command and Control Centre in Kozhikode to coordinate Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts. Health Minister George stated that approximately 1,500 Army personnel have been deployed in the rescue operation, along with forensic surgeons to assist in identifying the deceased.
The situation remains dire as thousands of people have been displaced and are now housed in relief camps. Health Minister George emphasized the need for psychological support for the affected individuals and the importance of controlling the spread of contagious diseases. The Army’s Engineer Task Force from Madras Engineer Group is constructing a temporary Bailey bridge in Chooralmala to facilitate rescue and relief operations. Additionally, an Indian Air Force plane has delivered a 110-feet Bailey bridge and three search and rescue dog teams to Kannur to aid in the search efforts.
An all-party meeting, chaired by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, is scheduled to take place in Wayanad on Thursday to discuss the ongoing crisis and coordinate further relief measures. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are also expected to visit the relief camps in Wayanad to meet with the affected residents.
The situation remains precarious as heavy rainfall continues to batter the region. An NDRF personnel warned of the potential for further landslides due to the persistent rain. Helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued for those seeking assistance. The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted more rain for Wayanad and several other districts over the coming days. A red alert for heavy rain has been issued for Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasargod districts.
The international community has expressed condolences over the tragedy. Countries including the US, Russia, China, and Iran have conveyed their sympathies to the victims and their families.
