Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the landslide-ravaged sites in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Saturday, where over 300 lives were lost in a devastating tragedy. Describing the incident as far from ordinary, the Prime Minister conducted both aerial and ground surveys to assess the damage while rescue operations were still ongoing.
During a review meeting at the Wayanad District Collectorate, PM Modi affirmed the central government’s unwavering support to the state for all necessary assistance and relief efforts. He reassured that no relief work would be delayed due to funding shortages and emphasized the central government’s commitment to fulfill all state government requests.
The Prime Minister met with injured victims and interacted with those in relief camps, expressing his heartfelt sympathy. He recounted his immediate response to the disaster, including dispatching a Minister of State to evaluate the situation and deploying teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army, and Air Force for rescue operations.
“I have been closely monitoring the rescue efforts in Wayanad and am in constant touch with the authorities,” PM Modi stated. “Disaster management funds have already been released, with more to follow as needed.”
Highlighting the gravity of the disaster, PM Modi stressed the importance of collective efforts in rehabilitation, particularly for children who have lost their families. He expressed confidence in the state government’s role, supported fully by the Centre, to implement new long-term schemes for the affected.
In a joint press conference, Kerala Minister PA Mohammed Riyas commended the coordination between the state and central governments in rescue efforts. Revenue Minister K Rajan reported a loss of Rs 1,200 crore and requested Rs 2,000 crore for rehabilitation, urging the central government to declare the incident a national disaster.
An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) has been deployed to visit the affected areas and review the situation. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, during his meeting with PM Modi, requested financial support for both immediate rehabilitation and long-term climate change mitigation.
The tragic landslides on July 30, triggered by incessant rainfall, have left a lasting impact on Chooralmala and Mundakkai in Wayanad. The Prime Minister’s visit and assurances have provided a glimmer of hope for the survivors and the entire region as it begins the arduous process of rebuilding.
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