Wayanad Landslide: At Least 40 Feared Dead, Rescue Efforts Hampered by Heavy Rainfall

Wayanad, Kerala July 30 2024 :  A devastating landslide struck the hilly regions near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district early Tuesday morning, with at least 40 confirmed dead and several others missing. Rescue operations are currently underway as the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has deployed Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected area. An additional NDRF team, along with two units from the Kannur Defence Security Corps, is en route to provide further assistance.

Heavy rainfall has severely impacted rescue efforts, complicating the situation as many individuals are feared to have been swept away by the Chaliyar River, which flows towards the Nilambur region in Malappuram. Numerous houses, shops, and vehicles have been buried under debris in Mundakkai, and a crucial bridge leading to the disaster site has been washed away, exacerbating the difficulties faced by rescuers.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured that the army will be called in to build a temporary bridge and facilitate the evacuation of people by helicopter. He has also pledged to establish necessary arrangements at the disaster site to support ongoing relief efforts.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones, and my prayers are with the injured.” He confirmed that the central government would extend all possible assistance and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for those injured.

Former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi also conveyed his sympathies to the affected families. He urged for enhanced coordination among agencies, the establishment of a control room, and immediate communication regarding the needs for relief efforts.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George described the situation as dire, stating, “It is extremely unfortunate that massive landslides occurred early this morning. We are doing everything possible to rescue lives and have so far received 24 bodies in various hospitals, with many others receiving treatment for injuries. Control rooms have been set up in both the health and police departments, and additional medicines have been sent to Wayanad.” She also noted that Chief Minister Vijayan is actively overseeing the response efforts and providing critical instructions.

Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities continue to address the challenges posed by the severe weather and the extent of the destruction.