Wayanad: In Wayanad, Kerala, devastating landslides have struck with severe consequences, claiming the lives of at least 150 people, including children, and leaving numerous families missing, according to the latest government updates. The landslides occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, sweeping away homes and entire families, resulting in widespread destruction. Several villages, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, have been heavily affected, with reports indicating that Mundakkai town was entirely obliterated. The swollen rivers altered their courses, flooding inhabited areas and causing further damage, while massive boulders obstructed rescue efforts.
Media reports indicate that 17 bodies displaced by the flooding have been recovered from the Chaliyar River in Malappuram, several kilometers from the original site. The deceased are being transported to hospital morgues for identification and autopsy. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reported that 34 bodies have been identified, and 18 have been returned to their families. DNA tests are being conducted to identify those bodies that cannot be recognized.
The Army has managed to rescue approximately 1,000 individuals using a temporary bridge constructed after the permanent one was washed away by torrential rains. Col. Paramvir Singh Nagra, Commandant of the DSC Centre, noted the necessity of pausing rescue operations as darkness fell, despite the Army’s alert status for the past 15 days. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy, and Air Force are also involved in the response, with sniffer dogs and additional equipment on the way to aid the operations. Although the temporary bridge has facilitated the rescue of over 1,000 people, it is deemed unsafe for nighttime use, and efforts will resume in daylight.
The Indian Air Force has also airlifted several survivors. In response to the crisis, 45 relief camps have been established in Wayanad, sheltering 3,069 people, while 118 camps across the state are housing 5,531 individuals. The state government has declared two days of official mourning on July 30 and 31, during which no official functions or celebrations will be held.
Local television channels have broadcasted emotional phone calls from survivors pleading for rescue. In one such call, a woman from Chooralmala was heard desperately asking for help as a family member was trapped under debris and marsh.
As the rescue operations continue, 45 relief camps have been established in Wayanad, housing 3,069 displaced individuals, and 118 camps across the state accommodate 5,531 people. In response to the tragedy, the state government has declared two days of official mourning on July 30 and 31, suspending all official functions and celebrations.
