In Kerala’s Wayanad district, a series of deadly landslides have caused severe devastation, resulting in a tragic death toll of 358. Rescuers are working tirelessly to save hundreds of people who remain trapped under debris and collapsed buildings. As of the latest updates from the state government, more than 200 individuals are still unaccounted for.
The rescue operation, which has now entered its fifth day, is being led by the Indian Army, Kerala Police, and various emergency service units. To locate those trapped beneath the rubble, rescuers are using advanced deep search radars. They are also being assisted by volunteers and private search and rescue companies, who have joined the mission with large gear and sophisticated equipment.
Over 1,300 rescuers are currently involved in sifting through damaged buildings and debris in hopes of finding survivors.
The situation is challenging due to the massive logs and boulders that were carried by the landslides into residential areas such as Mundakkai and Chooralmala. These obstacles are making it extremely difficult for the rescue teams to locate and reach those believed to be buried under the rubble.
In a show of support, Malayalam film superstar Mohanlal is expected to arrive in Wayanad today to oversee the rescue operations. Lieutenant Colonel Mohanlal will visit the army camp and engage with the rescue personnel on the ground.
On the international front, US President Joe Biden has extended his condolences to those affected by the landslides. He has also expressed his support for the Indian Armed Forces and the disaster management teams involved in the rescue and relief efforts.
To further aid in the search for survivors, drone-based radar technology will be employed in the ongoing rescue operations. However, the efforts are being hampered by the rugged terrain and a shortage of necessary equipment. More than 200 people have been injured in the disaster, and the extent of the damage remains unclear.
Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has stated that the full scale of the devastation is not yet known. He also mentioned that rescue teams have not yet reached some of the first settlements affected by the landslides. Most of the bodies recovered so far are from a village that was destroyed when the Chaliyar River changed its course.
As the rescue operations continue, the situation remains dire, with ongoing efforts to provide relief and find survivors amidst the destruction.
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