Massive Landslides In Kerala's Wayanad: At Least 108 Died; Hundreds Trapped (image: x.com/dilipyadav_10)
A major landslide hit various hilly areas in Kerala’s Wayanad in the early hours of Tuesday, killing at least 108 people, including one child, and leaving over 100 people feared to be trapped. During heavy rain, the first landslide struck Mundakkai Town at around 1 am. While the rescue operations are progressing, a second landslide struck near Chooral Mala School at around 4 am.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has employed Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected areas, and additional NDRF team is on the way to the district as well. Besides, according to a Facebook post by the KSDMA, two teams of Kannur Defence Security Corps have also been directed to move to Wayanad to partake in the rescue operations.
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As per the local reports, the continuing heavy rainfall in the area is hindering the rescue efforts and many people are suspected to be trapped under the debris. Besides, the roads from Chooralmala to Mundakkai has been washed away, impeding rescue operations.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has given directions to coordinate the rescue operations in Wayanad, and he announced that “the entire government machinery is actively involved in the efforts, with Ministers overseeing and coordinating the operations,” Chief Minister’s office said a post on X.
Two Indian Air Force helicopters Mi-17 and an ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) departed from Sulur Air Base in Coimbatore at 7.30 AM.
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National Health Mission (NHM) has opened a control room and those in need of emergency assistance can contact authorities through helpline numbers, 9656938689 and 8086010833.
A control room has been established to provide immediate relief and rescue assistance following the tragic landslide at Chooralmala, Wayanad. pic.twitter.com/3QvMFZMHav
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) July 30, 2024
The Kerala government has restricted traffic movement along the Thamarassery route in the Wayanad, fearing that downpours could trigger further more landslides.
