Over 100 dead, hundreds trapped in Wayanad landslides

New Delhi, July 30: In the early hours of Tuesday, a devastating landslide struck the hilly regions near Meppadi in Kerala's Wayanad district, claiming at least 100 lives, including children, and leaving hundreds feared trapped. The disaster has triggered extensive search and rescue operations coordinated by both central and state authorities.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has deployed Fire Force and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected areas. In response to the tragedy, the Kerala government has announced that July 30 and 31 will be observed as days of state mourning, with all state government programs deferred. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted heavy rain for the district.

The Indian Army has been called in to assist with the rescue operations after a critical bridge linking the affected area to the nearest town was destroyed. The Army has mobilized four columns, including two from the 122 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) and two from the DSC Centre in Kannur. Additionally, two helicopters from the Indian Air Force have been deployed to aid in the rescue efforts, according to a statement from the office of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

A rescue official noted that efforts remain challenging due to the lack of internet connectivity in the area. The government has enlisted the help of all available agencies to support the ongoing rescue operations. Despite the ongoing heavy rainfall complicating efforts, rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach those trapped and ensure their safety.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences and announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs 50,000 for the injured. In a message on X, Modi stated, "Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured. Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri @pinarayivijayan and assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there."

Rahul Gandhi, who has previously represented Wayanad in Parliament, also expressed his sorrow and pledged support. "I have spoken to the Kerala chief minister and the Wayanad district collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway. I have requested them to ensure coordination with all agencies, set up a control room, and inform us of any assistance needed for the relief efforts. I will speak to Union ministers and request them to provide all assistance possible to Wayanad. I urge all UDF workers to assist the administration in the rescue and relief operations."

In addition to the rescue efforts, the National Health Mission has set up a control room and issued two helpline numbers, 9656938689 and 8086010833, to provide immediate assistance to those affected. Two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an ALH, were dispatched from Sulur early in the morning to aid in the rescue operations.

As the rescue teams continue their efforts amidst adverse weather conditions, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are with the victims and their families during this tragic time.