Recovery efforts continue in the landslide-hit regions of Wayanad, Kerala, as authorities work tirelessly to locate and identify the bodies of those lost in the catastrophic events. Two weeks after three deadly landslides struck the Chooralmala and Mundakai areas on July 30, the search for the missing remains ongoing, with both local and national agencies involved in the extensive operation.
The landslides, which destroyed houses and buildings across a vast area, have left the community in mourning, with over 400 people confirmed dead and around 100 still missing. In response, health authorities in Kerala have undertaken the painstaking task of conducting DNA tests on 401 bodies and body parts to help identify the victims. The bodies recovered so far include 231 complete bodies and approximately 206 body parts, with a significant portion requiring further analysis due to advanced decomposition.
The search operations have been carried out by a coordinated effort involving the Indian Army, Special Operations Group, Fire and Rescue Services, Forest Department, and hundreds of volunteers. Despite the challenging conditions, 349 body parts belonging to 248 individuals, including 121 men and 127 women, have been recovered. However, the identification process remains complex, particularly for 52 bodies or body parts that are too decomposed for immediate recognition.
In addition to the ongoing search in Wayanad, efforts have been extended to the Nilambur area and the Chaliyar River, where three more body parts were discovered on Tuesday. As the recovery operations progress, the authorities have intensified their efforts to ensure the dignity of the deceased and closure for their families.
To support the identification process, blood samples from 115 individuals, including relatives of three Bihar natives, have been collected. State Revenue Minister K Rajan emphasized the importance of these efforts, acknowledging that many families are still awaiting news about their loved ones. In total, 415 samples have been sent for DNA testing, and the state continues to work closely with the affected communities.
As the focus on recovery continues, the Kerala government has also turned its attention to the survivors of the landslides. Currently, over 1,500 people are residing in 12 relief camps, where they have sought refuge from the disaster. The state is actively working on relocating these individuals to temporary settlements, with plans underway to identify vacant houses and other residential facilities in Wayanad.
The Harrison Malayalam labor unions have been engaged to assess the safety and management of 53 ready-to-occupy houses, with a report on additional housing options expected soon. Temporary settlements are planned for several areas, including Meppadi, Mupainad, Vaithiri, Kalpatta, Muttil, and Ambalavyal, where survivors will be provided with fully equipped accommodations.
In an effort to ensure the welfare of the disaster victims, a five-member committee, consisting of panchayat members, revenue officers, and social workers, has been tasked with inspecting rental housing options within local self-government limits. Additionally, a cabinet sub-committee has issued 1,368 certificates through a special campaign to provide official documentation for those affected by the disaster.
The devastating back-to-back landslides have left an indelible mark on the Wayanad region, and the recovery process will be long and arduous. However, the coordinated efforts of the government, local agencies, and volunteers offer hope for the survivors as they begin the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of this tragedy.
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