At least 106 people have been killed, 128 injured, and hundreds are feared trapped after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday morning. The landslides occurred amid heavy rain and caused widespread devastation. Rescue operations are ongoing, involving multiple agencies including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army.
The landslides hit Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages hardest. Many people are feared to have been washed away in the Chaliyar river. In response, the Indian Army has deployed 225 personnel, including medical teams, while two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter), are assisting in the rescue efforts. A control center has also been set up in Calicut under the Para Regiment to monitor all relief operations.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described the situation as a heart-wrenching disaster, noting that an entire locality was wiped out. The state government has declared two days of state mourning. Additionally, Kerala minister Veena George announced that a team from the Indian Navy would assist in the rescue operations. A crucial bridge in the district that connected the affected areas to the nearest town of Chooralmala was washed away, further complicating rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of all necessary help from the central government. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed in the landslides and Rs 50,000 for those injured.
The landslides have left a trail of destruction, with visuals showing uprooted trees and destroyed houses in the picturesque district known for its tea estates. Vehicles washed away in floodwaters are stuck in tree trunks, and rescue operations are being hindered by incessant rain and large boulders blocking the path of rescue workers.
Chief Minister Vijayan stated that a delegation of five ministers had been assigned to Wayanad to oversee the ongoing relief efforts. A control room has been opened in response to the landslides, and helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued for emergency assistance. Several families have been moved to various camps or the homes of their relatives.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for heavy rain in the districts of Kasargod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, and Idukki. Locals and tourists have been advised to exercise extreme caution.
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