In a devastating natural disaster in Kerala, massive landslides caused by torrential rains in Wayanad on Tuesday have resulted in at least 123 fatalities and 128 injuries. With many still trapped under debris, there is a grave concern for the increase in death toll as rescue teams work tirelessly to find survivors. According to government sources, the death count currently stands at 123. The Kerala government has declared two days of state mourning on July 30 and 31 in light of the tragic landslides, and all state government events have been deferred.
Rescue Operation
The Indian Army has been called in to assist with rescue efforts after a temporary bridge connecting the affected area to the nearest town was destroyed. Four Army columns, including two from the 122 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) and two from the DSC Center in Kannur, have been mobilized. Two helicopters from the Indian Air Force are also aiding in the rescue operations, as per a statement from the office of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. However, rescue efforts are hampered by the lack of internet connectivity in the area.
State Forest Minister AK Saseendran described the situation as serious, emphasizing that all available agencies are working on the rescue operations. A special control room has been established by the district administration at the police headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram to coordinate efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, assuring him of all possible assistance from the central government. The Prime Minister’s Office announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of those who lost their lives in the landslides. Additionally, the injured will receive Rs. 50,000.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast heavy rains for the district, which contributed to the landslides. The situation remains critical as authorities continue their efforts to rescue those still trapped and provide relief to the affected areas.