Wayanad Landslide: Death Toll Rises To 146, Army Intensifies Rescue Operation | Top Updates – News18

Last Updated: July 31, 2024, 07:53 IST

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel conduct rescue operation after landslides in the hilly areas near Meppadi in Wayanad district of Kerala. (Image: PTI)

Following the devastating landslide in Wayanad that has already claimed the lives of at least 98 people, the Kerala government on Tuesday declared state mourning for two days

Several rescue agencies, including the Indian Army, Fire force, and NDRF intensified their rescue operations on Wednesday to trace people suspected to be trapped after massive landslides hit Kerala’s Wayanad district.

The landslides, which hit hilly areas near Meppadi early on Tuesday, have resulted in a total of 146 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. The Army is working in close coordination with the NDRF and other agencies to carry out rescue operations in the affected areas.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the mountain district of Wayanad and all northern districts of Kerala, indicating extremely heavy rainfall within the next 24 hours.

India Army Carries Rescue Operations in Wayanad

Apart from the four columns with a total strength of approximately 225 personnel, already deployed for the operation, two more columns consisting of at least 140 personnel are kept on standby in Thiruvananthapuram to be airlifted in case of an exigency.

The Army is also setting up a command-and-control centre at Kozhikode to coordinate HADR efforts.

Helicopter reconnaissance of the affected area is being undertaken and damage assessment is being carried out to channelise rescue operation in correct direction.

Besides the aid in terms of medicines and first aid, ECHS POLYCLINC Kalpetta is extending all possible help in terms of the Service of Doctor/ Nursing assistant and Ambulance service to the flood operation columns.

The Army remains steadfast in assisting the stranded citizens and is working relentlessly to ensure the safety of one and all.

CM Vijayan Urges People to Avoid Travel To Wayanad

Following the devastating landslide in Wayanad that has already claimed the lives of at least 146 people and left 128 people injured, the Kerala government on Tuesday declared state mourning for two days.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the state government is deeply saddened by the tragic incident that claimed numerous lives and resulted in the widespread destruction of homes and other property.

As per protocol, the National Flag will be kept at half-mast and all public functions and celebrations will be cancelled.

The chief minister also urged people to avoid unnecessary travel to Wayanad adding that the rescue operation was the priority.

“Kerala Bank has already contributed Rs 50 lakh to CMDRF. The Chief Minister of Sikkim has pledged Rs 2 crore, and Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has promised Rs 5 crore in aid,” he said about the relief aid.

CM Chairs High Level Meeting

A high-level meeting was held on Tuesday under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to coordinate Wayanad rescue operations and discuss further steps.

The CM assessed the rescue operations and reviewed the coordination with the agencies under the central government, the deployment of disaster response forces, health and safety precautions and the facilities in the relief camps.

Over 146 Died in Wayanad Landslides

Over 146 people died and 128 injured after massive landslides hit hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district early on Tuesday. Around 150 people have been rescued from Mudakkayi village, provided medical aid and evacuated to safer places.

The landslides that, occurred between 2 AM and 4 AM, primarily impacted Mundakai and Chooralmala. Rescue efforts are hampered in Mundakai due to blocked roads and unstable terrain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep concern and assured that the Central government will provide all necessary assistance to manage the crisis.

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