Raigad landslide: Survivors moved to school, temple

Survivors at Panchayati Mandir

In Irsalwadi, the aftermath of the tragedy continues to unfold as search and rescue operations persisted until 5.30 pm on Friday. Tragically, six more lifeless bodies were found amidst the debris. The small village in Raigad is reeling from the devastating incident that has claimed numerous lives, leaving families shattered, and many still unaccounted for. Survivors, seeking refuge in temples, bravely share their harrowing stories of loss and resilience with mid-day.

Sarpanch Ritu Thombre provided an update, stating, "We are currently in the process of relocating the survivors to Panyachati Mandir Trust until suitable accommodations are arranged." Initially, the survivors had been housed in Raigad Jilha School, Nanivali. However, due to inadequate facilities and frequent power cuts, they were swiftly transferred to Panchayati Mandir Trust via buses.

Urmila Pardhi her daughter-in-law Vandana Pardhi and her three granddaughters

Amidst the sorrow, one survivor, Saru Pardhi, emotionally expressed, "There is nothing left now. Our home is gone. Most of my family is safe, but we couldn't rescue our relatives Dama Bhavar and Radhi Bhavar. On Thursday, I tried to climb up the hill, but my courage failed me." Sarpanch Thombre addressed the village's preparedness for such calamities, stating, "Irsalwadi village is not prone to landslides, so no one was prepared for such an unfortunate incident."

Gomi Pardhi, another survivor, recalled the terrifying moment, "Around 10.30 pm, we heard a colossal bang, and in an instant, mud engulfed our house. We all rushed to our small field, but some members of my family - Balu Pardhi, Ambi Pardhi, Bhaskar Pardhi - are now no more. Nothing remains now." Ramesh Pardhi, 25, tearfully shared, "I managed to save my 8-month-old sister Bhanushree, but I couldn't rescue my brother Sudhama."

The J M Mhatre Charitable Trust, overseeing the temple where survivors sought shelter, pledged their support, with Mangesh Aparaj assuring, "Around 70 people are expected to stay here until suitable arrangements are made. We will provide them food, water, and care."

Among those who lost their loved ones, Urmila Pardhi, 50, sorrowfully said, "Only my elder daughter-in-law Vandana and I are left. All my other children are likely gone. My son Suresh is no more. I now have to care for his three kids. I hope the government offers assistance for housing and financial support."

Reunka Algude, an NCP worker, asserted, "We have brought essential items and will distribute them to those in need. Jitendra Awhad arranged for a car to transport us here." Ashok Pawar, a member of Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal, added, "Our team has delivered essential supplies, and another team is distributing food packets on the hills."

Saru Pardhi, survivor; (right) Sarpanch Ritu Thombre

In the face of adversity, the temple became a refuge, with NGOs, political parties, and kind-hearted individuals rallying together to provide aid to those in distress. Understanding the psychological toll of the tragedy, the psychiatric department of Alibag civil hospital offered their support at the temple. Counsellor Dhanshree Kadu stressed the potential for post-traumatic stress disorder among the victims, stating, "Given the pain they endured, early stages of depression and loneliness may develop. We are dedicated to raising public awareness about mental health during this challenging time."