Climate change unleashes devastation

Wayanad, July 31: The death toll in the landslide-affected Kerala's Wayanad mounted to 176 on Wednesday even as the Army, Navy, and Air Force were engaged in rescue operations and setting up infrastructure, including bridges.

The number of missing people, as per the officials, was 98.

However, many people were searching for their relatives, and the estimate is said to be around 200.

The worst affected areas include Churalpara, Vellarimala, Mundakayil, and Pothukalu. The locals from these areas who managed to escape are deeply shattered by the extent of the devastation.

Heavy rain at a few places hampered the rescue operations, highlighting the growing impact of climate change on the region.

Unprecedented and erratic weather patterns have intensified, leading to more frequent and severe landslides.

This catastrophe underscores the urgent need for addressing the climate crisis to prevent further tragedies.