Kerala Wayanad Landslide district experienced devastating landslides triggered by heavy rains, which resulted in the tragic deaths of five individuals, including two children. The landslides trapped hundreds in affected areas such as Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. The landslides severely impacted and isolated these regions. Ongoing heavy rainfall complicates rescue operations and raises concerns that rescuers might still find more individuals trapped.
The recent landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, has left a significant impact on the region, with the loss of lives and hundreds feared trapped under debris. As the situation continues to evolve, extensive rescue and relief efforts are underway. Here’s a detailed update on the ongoing operations, government actions, and the current status of the tragedy.
Immediate Impact
Wayanad, a picturesque district known for its lush green landscapes and tranquil environment, has been devastated by severe landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. The landslide resulted in the tragic deaths of five individuals, including two children. The affected areas, namely Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, have been severely impacted, with infrastructure destroyed and roads blocked. The continuous rainfall has further complicated rescue operations, making it challenging to reach those in need.
Emergency Helpline Numbers for Wayanad Landslide Victims
To assist those in need of emergency help, the Health Department has established a control room and issued two helpline numbers: 9656938689 and 8086010833. These numbers are available 24/7 for individuals seeking assistance or information about their loved ones. The control room is working to coordinate with rescue teams, provide updates, and offer support to families affected by the tragedy.
Ongoing Challenges and Solutions
The rescue operations are being hindered by several challenges. The persistent rainfall has created hazardous conditions, making it difficult for rescue teams to access affected areas. Landslides have also caused damage to roads and infrastructure, further complicating transportation and communication.
To address these challenges, rescue teams are utilizing advanced technology and equipment. The deployment of Air Force helicopters is a critical step in reaching remote areas and airlifting individuals in need of urgent assistance. Additionally, efforts are being made to clear blocked roads and restore communication lines to facilitate a more effective rescue operation.
In the wake of this tragedy, there has been an outpouring of support from local communities, NGOs, and other organizations. Volunteers are contributing their time and resources to assist in the rescue and relief efforts. Relief camps have been set up to provide shelter, food, and medical aid to the displaced individuals.
Donations and contributions are being collected to support the affected families and help with the rebuilding process. Community organizations and individuals are coming together to provide necessary supplies and support to those in need.
Government Response and Rescue Operations
Chief Minister’s Announcement
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has taken decisive steps to manage the crisis. He recently announced the deployment of two Air Force helicopters to assist in search and rescue operations. This strategic move aims to expedite the rescue of individuals trapped in the most inaccessible areas and, simultaneously, provide much-needed support to the ground teams.
The Chief Minister emphasized that all government agencies are actively participating in the rescue efforts. Specifically, this includes the State Disaster Management Authority, local police, fire services, and medical teams. Furthermore, effective coordination among these various agencies is crucial, as it ensures a swift response and helps to minimize the disaster’s impact.
To ensure smooth and efficient rescue operations, Chief Minister Vijayan assured that state ministers will travel to Wayanad. Their presence will oversee the rescue efforts, facilitate coordination between agencies, and guarantee the effective use of required resources. Furthermore, this approach will streamline the process and enhance overall efficiency.
District Authorities and UDF MLA Update
In addition to state-level efforts, local authorities are also playing a significant role in the rescue operations. UDF MLA T Siddique provided a video update on the current status of the situation. According to Siddique, district authorities are formulating a plan to airlift residents from the most affected areas, including Mundakkai. The plan aims to evacuate those trapped and provide immediate relief to the displaced individuals.
The district administration is working diligently to assess the needs of the affected population and prioritize rescue operations. They are also collaborating with various agencies to ensure that the necessary aid and support are provided to the victims.
Major Landslide Hits Kerala’s Wayanad District: 24 Dead and Hundreds Feared Trapped
Nepali child among 24 dead; 4 villages cut off.
A catastrophic rain-induced landslide struck Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday, resulting in at least 24 fatalities, including a Nepali national, and leaving hundreds feared trapped. Among those who perished were two children, including a one-year-old from a Nepali family. The landslide has isolated several villages, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that authorities have dispatched two Air Force helicopters to the affected area. These helicopters will aid in airlifting the trapped families and, in addition, provide crucial support for the rescue efforts.
Government Response and Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has communicated with Kerala’s Chief Minister regarding the crisis and, consequently, assured full support from the central government. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced a compensation package of Rs 2 lakh for the families of each deceased victim. Furthermore, they will provide Rs 50,000 for those injured.
Updates on the Kerala Wayanad Landslide
- Affected Areas: Authorities reported the fatalities primarily from the Chooralmala and Thondernad regions, situated about 460 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital.
- Search and Rescue Operations: Authorities have initiated a search and rescue operation to relocate affected individuals to safe shelters.UDF MLA T Siddique revealed that authorities are planning to airlift residents from the Mundakkai area.
- Rescue Efforts: Officials are still gathering complete information about those missing and deceased. NDRF personnel are working to reach the affected areas despite ongoing challenges.
- Political Response: Former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi has expressed deep concern over the tragedy. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), he offered condolences to the bereaved families and confirmed that he had spoken with the Chief Minister. Gandhi also pledged to coordinate with the central government to ensure all possible assistance is provided.
- Disaster Management: The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) reported that Fireforce and NDRF teams are on-site. They are actively working, and additional teams are mobilizing to expedite rescue operations.
- Weather Challenges: The ongoing heavy rainfall complicates rescue efforts and is likely to prolong the operation. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the heavy rainfall is likely to persist in the northern hilly areas of Kerala.
- Infrastructure Damage: Initial assessments show that landslides have partially damaged approximately 29 houses in Wayanad. Additionally, authorities have relocated 700 people to shelter camps to ensure their safety.
- Flooding Concerns: The continuous rainfall has led to rising water levels in rivers flowing through the region, adding to the challenges faced by rescue teams.
Heavy rainfall prediction in Wayanad on July 30
- Weather Alerts: The IMD has issued a ‘red’ alert for Wayanad and Kannur districts, predicting extremely heavy rainfall of over 20 cm within a 24-hour period. This alert underscores the severity of the weather conditions and the potential for further impact.
- The districts of Wayanad and Kannur are on a ‘red’ alert for today, the weather body said, predicting extremely heavy rainfall in the region. A ‘red’ alert indicates the possibility of over 20 cm of rainfall in a region during a period of 24 hours.
