Wayanad Landslide: Death Toll Rises to 173, Rescue Efforts Continue Amid Adverse Weather

The landslides, which devastated Mundakkai and surrounding villages, have resulted in widespread loss and injuries, with 23 children among the deceased. Rescue teams, including the Army and Navy, are working tirelessly, while the state government coordinates relief efforts. The disaster is the worst in Kerala since the 2018 floods.

Background:

Two landslides struck Wayanad on Tuesday, causing significant damage and loss of life. The first landslide occurred at 2:00 AM in Mundakkai, followed by another at 4:10 AM in Chooralmala. Rescue teams, including the Indian Army, Navy, and NDRF, have been working around the clock, digging through debris and conducting aerial surveys to locate survivors. Despite the challenging weather conditions, efforts are ongoing to reach remote areas cut off from rescue operations.

Government Response:

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured that rescue operations will continue until all possible survivors are found. The state government has published a list of missing persons, ranging from a 14-day-old infant to an 85-year-old man. The Chief Minister's office also reported the construction of a Bailey bridge by the Army at Chooralmala to facilitate rescue operations.

Humanitarian Impact:

The disaster has deeply affected the local communities, with entire families missing and numerous people hospitalized with injuries. The scale of the tragedy has drawn comparisons to the 2018 Kerala floods, which claimed nearly 500 lives. The ongoing rescue mission reflects a coordinated effort by various agencies to mitigate the impact of this devastating natural disaster. As rescue teams continue to battle adverse conditions, the focus remains on saving lives and providing relief to the affected communities. The Wayanad landslides serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by regions prone to natural disasters and the importance of preparedness and timely intervention.