The devastating landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district have claimed 23 lives, as confirmed by state Health Minister Veena George.
The affected areas include Chooralmala town and Thondernad village, where a one-year-old child from a Nepalese family perished. Additionally, three bodies, including that of a five-year-old, were recovered near Pothukal village.
While the official death toll stands at 23, authorities fear that hundreds may still be trapped under the debris. Rescue operations are ongoing, but the full extent of those missing is yet to be determined. Over 70 injured individuals have been admitted to various hospitals, according to State Revenue Minister K Rajan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his concern over the landslides in Wayanad, assuring Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of the Centre’s full support. In a post on the social media platform X, Modi conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and promised all possible assistance to aid the rescue efforts.
Wayanad district authorities, led by Collector Meghasree D R, have mobilized extensive rescue operations involving the NDRF, fire force, police, and various government departments. Volunteers and local residents are also actively participating in the rescue efforts to assist those affected by the landslides.
The landslides have caused widespread destruction in Wayanad, with several villages such as Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha being severely affected. The disaster has resulted in the destruction of houses, swollen water bodies, and uprooted trees, leaving many areas isolated.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that two Air Force helicopters from Sulur are being dispatched to Wayanad to aid in the search and rescue operations.
District authorities are also considering airlifting people from the most severely affected areas, such as Mundakkai.
In response to the landslides, several families have been relocated to camps or the homes of relatives. The district administration is coordinating with various government agencies and non-governmental organizations to provide relief and support to those displaced by the disaster.
As a precautionary measure, the shutter of the Banasura Sagar dam on the Karamanthodu river has been opened. Authorities have warned residents living downstream and in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and cautious due to the potential for further flooding.
The rescue and relief operations in Wayanad are being conducted through a coordinated effort between government agencies and local volunteers. The NDRF, fire force, police, and various government departments are working tirelessly to reach and assist those affected by the landslides.
Rescue operations in Wayanad are ongoing, with NDRF personnel and other agencies facing challenges due to the difficult terrain and weather conditions. Efforts are being made to reach isolated areas and provide necessary aid to the victims.
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