Wayanad landslides: Death toll surpasses 106, several feared trapped; rescue operations underway
Wayanad Landslides: At least 106 people have died and several are feared missing after landslides hit Kerala on Tuesday. At least 116 people are said to be injured as massive landslides wreaked havoc in various hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala's Wayanad district.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that all government agencies are participating in the search and rescue operation. The operations would be coordinated, and state ministers would go to the hilly district to oversee the rescue efforts, Chief Minister Vijayan said in a statement released by his office.
He stated that in the aftermath of the landslides and other rain-related disasters in Wayanad district, the Health Department (National Health Mission) set up a control room. Those in need of immediate assistance can call authorities at 9656938689 and 8086010833, the notification stated.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has sent Fireforce and NDRF teams to the affected areas, with another NDRF team on its way to Wayanad. Two Kannur Defence Security Corps teams have also been dispatched to help with the rescue efforts, according to a KSDMA Facebook post.
Congress leader and former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi expressed grief over the death of people in landslides. "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 said.
"I have spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway. I have requested them to ensure coordination with all agencies, set up a control room, and inform us of any assistance needed for the relief efforts. I will speak to Union Ministers and request them to provide all assistance possible to Wayanad. I urge all UDF workers to assist the administration in the rescue and relief operations," he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke to CM Vijayan and assured him all help from the Centre. He also spoke to Union Minister Suresh Gopi about the prevailing situation. PM also spoke to BJP President JP Nadda and asked him to ensure BJP karyakartas do whatever they can to assist in the relief efforts.
Prime Minister has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakhs from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased in the landslides in parts of Wayanad. The injured would receive Rs 50,000.
At least 84 bodies have been recovered so far after tragic landslides. Earlier it was reported that seven bodies have been recovered. A one-year-old child from a Nepali family living in Thondernad village died in a landslide, according to Wayanad district officials.
According to a meteorological report from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kerala's central and northern districts can anticipate isolated heavy rain today. Isolated thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds are also expected over Kerala in the next three hours.
Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts are on yellow alert due to isolated heavy rainfall (7-11 cm in 24 hours). Other districts might experience light to moderate rainfall.
- PTC NEWS
