Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had to postpone their scheduled visit to the landslide-hit district of Wayanad on Wednesday morning. The decision followed advice from authorities indicating that the leaders would be unable to land in the area due to relentless rain and adverse weather conditions.
In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi shared the news with his followers, stating, "Priyanka and I were scheduled to visit Wayanad tomorrow to meet with families affected by the landslide and take stock of the situation." He continued, "However, due to incessant rains and adverse weather conditions, we have been informed by authorities that we will not be able to land."
The landslides, one of the worst natural disasters in Kerala recently, have claimed at least 116 lives and injured 128 people. The disaster has trapped hundreds under debris, leading to fears of rising fatalities as rescue operations continue.
Rahul Gandhi assured the people of Wayanad that he and Priyanka would visit the district as soon as possible. He expressed his deep concern for the affected families and emphasized, "In the meantime, we will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide all necessary assistance." His sentiment was echoed by Priyanka Gandhi, who posted on X, "My brothers and sisters in Wayanad, even though we cannot come to Wayanad tomorrow, our hearts are with you at this tragic hour and we are praying for all of you."
Earlier in the day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, expressed their condolences and urged United Democratic Front (UDF) workers to assist those affected by the disaster. Rahul Gandhi, who previously represented Wayanad in the 17th Lok Sabha, conveyed his deep anguish over the tragedy and reassured that rescue operations were in progress. He noted, "I have spoken to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Wayanad district collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway."
Rahul Gandhi also called on the government to provide comprehensive support for rescue and rehabilitation efforts, demanding enhanced compensation for the families of the victims and the restoration of crucial transport and communication links.
Priyanka Gandhi voiced her sadness at the devastation and called for urgent action to expedite relief efforts. "My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with all those who have lost loved ones. I hope and pray that everyone is brought to safety as soon as possible," she said. She urged the government to accelerate relief operations and encouraged UDF workers to offer their support and comfort to those affected.
Rahul Gandhi, who won seats in both Rae Bareli and Wayanad in the recent elections, has chosen to represent Rae Bareli in the Lok Sabha. Priyanka Gandhi is expected to contest the polls in Wayanad when they occur.
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