At least 156 people have been killed, and over 180 were injured after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Wayanad. Government data reveals that over 100 people are feared trapped under debris as multiple agencies, including the Army, race against time to save lives.
Three landslides hit Wayanad within four hours on Tuesday amid heavy rain, devastating Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages. Many were swept away in the Chaliyar River.
Key Developments:
- Relief Efforts: Wayanad district authorities have set up 45 relief camps, accommodating 3,069 people. Visuals show uprooted trees and damaged houses across the district, known for its picturesque locales and tea estates.
- Data Collection: Authorities are collecting data on missing persons by reviewing ration card details and other government documents, as reported by PTI.
- Government Response: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has declared a two-day state mourning and will chair a meeting with senior officials and ministers in Wayanad to review rescue operations.
- Rescue Operations: Army, NDRF, SDRF, and other emergency services resumed operations on Day 2, searching under collapsed roofs and debris for victims and survivors. 225 Army personnel are deployed, and additional companies have been moved from Thiruvananthapuram and Bengaluru to Calicut.
- Infrastructure Damage: The Army rescued over 1,000 people using a temporary structure after a major bridge connecting Chooralmala and Mundakkai villages was washed away due to heavy rain.
- Continued Risk: An NDRF personnel indicated the possibility of another landslide as heavy rain continues. Helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued for assistance.
