A tragic series of landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, has resulted in the deaths of at least five people, including two children, early on Tuesday. The calamity has left hundreds of individuals feared trapped in the hilly regions of the district. The first landslide struck near Meppadi at around 2 am, followed by another at approximately 4.10 am.
Rescue operations are being conducted by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local teams, despite the ongoing heavy rains that are hampering efforts. Fireforce units and NDRF teams were deployed to the affected area, and an additional NDRF team is on its way to Wayanad, as reported by the news agency PTI. The rescue operations are also being supported by two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an ALH, which are departing from Sulur.
At least 16 people are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Meppadi. A video shared by West Coast Weatherman on X (formerly Twitter) depicts the aftermath of the landslides in the district. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has instructed two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps to assist in the rescue operations.
The continuous rain has posed significant challenges to the rescue efforts. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured that all possible rescue operations will be coordinated. He stated that since the incident was reported, government systems have been working together in the rescue mission, with ministers set to visit Wayanad to oversee the activities. A control room has been established in response to the landslides, and helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued for emergency assistance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his distress over the landslides in a post on X, confirming that he had spoken with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He conveyed his condolences to those who lost their loved ones and assured all possible help from the Centre. He also mentioned that rescue operations are underway to assist those affected.
Rahul Gandhi also offered his condolences, expressing his deep anguish over the landslides and the loss of lives. In his post on X, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and hoped for the safe rescue of those still trapped. Gandhi mentioned that he had spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured him that rescue operations were ongoing. He requested coordination with all agencies, the establishment of a control room, and updates on any assistance needed for the relief efforts. He also pledged to speak to Union Ministers to provide all possible assistance to Wayanad and urged all UDF workers to assist in the rescue and relief operations.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for northern districts of Kerala, including Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram, which are expected to receive heavy rain. Locals and tourists have been advised to exercise extreme caution in light of the adverse weather conditions.
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