In Wayanad district of Kerala, a tragic incident unfolded this morning as massive landslides claimed the lives of at least 54 individuals in the hilly regions. The landslides were a result of the relentless rainfall in the area, with the state experiencing a staggering 372 mm of rain in just 24 hours.
Various rescue teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), have mobilized to assist in the operations near Meppadi. As of now, 250 individuals have been successfully rescued and relocated to temporary shelters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, pledging support to the state government and directing BJP chief JP Nadda to ensure party workers participate in the rescue efforts.
The Prime Minister’s Office has declared financial assistance of ₹ 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹ 50,000 for those injured in the calamity.
JP Nadda emphasized that the immediate focus is on rescuing those trapped and recovering the bodies of the deceased. He also mentioned that the central government’s support has arrived and that the efforts are being coordinated with the state government.
The office of the Kerala Chief Minister has established a control room to facilitate immediate relief and rescue services post the landslides. Affected areas include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, where numerous roads have been destroyed, and a bridge has been washed away, making several areas inaccessible. Health Minister Veena George informed ANI that the priority is to restore connectivity, and helicopters will be deployed once the weather permits.
