At least 89 people have lost their lives, and dozens remain trapped following massive landslides triggered by heavy rains in Kerala’s Wayanad district. The disaster struck the hilly areas early Tuesday, causing widespread devastation and hampering rescue efforts due to continued downpours and the collapse of a vital bridge.
Rescue Operations and Casualties
Rescue teams are working tirelessly despite adverse conditions. “The situation continues to remain very grave. The casualties may go up,” stated V Venu, Kerala’s top civil servant. Over 200 army personnel have been deployed to assist in the search and rescue operations.
So far, more than 250 individuals have been rescued and moved to relief camps. Local hospitals are treating at least 129 injured persons. The death toll includes 65 confirmed fatalities in Wayanad and 16 bodies recovered from the Chaliyar river in the neighboring Malappuram district.
Affected Areas and Impact
The landslides have ravaged several areas, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome. Wayanad, part of the Western Ghats mountain range, is especially prone to landslides during the monsoon season.
Videos circulating on social media show muddy waters rushing through streets and forested areas, destroying homes and stranding people and vehicles. The collapse of a bridge connecting Chooralmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has further isolated these regions, complicating rescue efforts.
Local and National Response
Local residents have been actively assisting in rescue operations. State and national disaster relief teams are also on the ground. However, strong river currents and heavy rains have impeded their progress, forcing air-relief operations to be postponed.
Rashid Padikkalparamban, a local resident, reported that three landslides occurred around midnight, washing away the bridge and leaving communities cut off. V Venu mentioned that a small team had managed to cross the river to reach isolated areas, but more resources are urgently needed.
Government and Political Reactions
The tragedy has garnered national attention. Vice-President Jagdeep Singh Dhankar addressed the “very painful situation” in India’s parliament. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, a former MP from Wayanad, is scheduled to visit the district on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, offering federal assistance in the relief efforts. He also announced compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,388; £1,857) for the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for the injured.
Continued Risks and Warnings
Wayanad and surrounding regions remain on high alert due to ongoing heavy rain forecasts. Schools and colleges in 10 of the 14 districts have been closed as a precaution. The region has a history of such disasters; in 2019, 17 people died in a landslide in Puthumala, about 10km from the current affected areas.
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