Tragic Landslides Hit Wayanad, Death Toll Rises

A terrible landslide in Wayanad, Kerala has shaken up the region with the death toll reaching 143 as of Wednesday. The State Health Department has confirmed the number, highlighting the ongoing rescue operations in the wake of this disaster.

Rescue teams are working hard in Chooralmala after the landslide struck on Tuesday. The massive soil movement caused significant destruction, tearing down homes, blocking roads, uprooting trees, and swelling nearby water bodies, which is making it difficult for rescue workers to do their job.

In a somber tribute, the national flag was lowered to half-mast at the Kerala Legislative Assembly as the state enters a two-day mourning period for the victims of the landslide. On the ground, Union Minister George Kurian arrived in Wayanad to oversee relief efforts and meet with officials from the NDRF, CRPF, and Army.

NDRF Commander Akhilesh Kumar reported successful rescues from Mundakkai village but expressed concern that more victims might still be trapped under collapsed buildings. He mentioned, “We rescued 70 people but had to pause operations due to bad weather.”

The situation is tense as rain continues, raising the fear of further landslides. People affected by the disaster are now being sheltered in a resort and a mosque on the opposite side of the river.

Meanwhile, Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George, who was heading to Wayanad, was involved in a minor accident near Manjeri, but fortunately, there were no serious injuries reported. She is currently receiving treatment at Manjeri Medical College.

Prior to this incident, Minister George had visited the Health Department to assess ongoing arrangements for the landslide response. She has been actively ensuring that there are enough hospital beds and has suggested setting up temporary hospitals if required.

In the early hours of July 30, two significant landslides occurred in the Mundakkai and Chooramala areas of Vellarimala village, causing widespread damage. The local school, Vellarmala GVH School, was completely buried under the debris.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan held an urgent meeting to speed up rescue operations and coordinate efforts with various agencies navigating the crisis.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy rainfall continuing into August, adding to the challenges faced by rescue teams in Wayanad.