THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Wayanad, July 30: Torrential rains led to multiple landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district’s hilly regions early Tuesday, resulting in at least 80 deaths. There is growing concern that the number of casualties may increase, as many are feared to be trapped under the rubble.
The Kerala Revenue Minister’s office reported on Tuesday that the death toll from the landslides in the Meppadi area of Wayanad, Kerala, has increased to 84, with approximately 116 people injured, as per ANI.
According to the State Revenue Minister’s office, 116 injured individuals are being treated at different hospitals across the district.
Kerala Chief Secretary V Venu stated that rescue operations in the landslide-affected regions of Wayanad, Kerala, had recovered over 80 bodies on Tuesday.
However according to India Today, at least 106 people have died, 128 have been injured, and hundreds are feared trapped following severe landslides that hit the hilly regions near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday morning during heavy rainfall.
Rescue operations underway
Rescue teams are rapidly conducting rescue operations, but heavy rain is hindering their efforts. According to the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), fire department teams and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deployed to the affected area. Two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps have also been sent to Wayanad to assist with the rescue efforts.
The Indian Army stated that 225 personnel, including medical teams, have been deployed. They also mentioned that two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), are also being used in the operation.
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Authorities stated that the landslides affected and isolated the villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha.
Two helpline numbers issued
Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George said that, in response to the Wayanad landslides, the health department has set up a district-level control room and issued two emergency health service helpline numbers. Hospitals in Vaithiri, Kalpetta, Meppadi, and Mananthavady have been put on alert, and additional health teams will be deployed in Wayanad.
PM Modi expresses concern, compensation announced
Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced his concern over the incident and mentioned that he had a conversation with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, assuring the state of full support from the central government.
“Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured. Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri@pinarayivijayan and also assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there,“ PM Modi posted on X.
Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured.
Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri @pinarayivijayan and also assured all possible…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 30, 2024
The Prime Minister’s Office has announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who died in the landslides, and Rs 50,000 for those who were injured.
