A devastating landslide hit Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday, July 30 at around 2 Am killing at least 89 people with a hundred others feared trapped. The area has been cut off due to extremely heavy rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert predicting extremely heavy rainfall on Tuesday in Kerala affecting many hilly areas including Churalpara, Velarimala, Mundakayil, and Pothukalu. The IMD continues to predict heavy rainfall in the region.
Army, Air Force, And Indian Navy Teams Deployed in Rescue Operations
According to official reports, around 250 members have been deployed in the rescue operations from the Fire and Rescue, Civil Defense, NDRF, and Local Emergency Response Teams. Furthermore, two Air Force helicopters Mi-17 and ALH are also coordinating the rescue operations in the region. Horrifying visuals of the landslide have been shared online. The Indian Navy Team from the Ezhimala Naval Base in Kannur is also being sent to Kerala in order to assist in the rescue operations at Chooralmala. The Army and the Air Force teams have also been deployed in the rescue operations.
Horrific Visuals, CM Vijayan Assures All Possible Measures
Reportedly, several bodies were seen floating on various parts of the Chaliyar River in Malappuram. Several cars were being swept away in the rain water with many being stuck between uprooted trees. Many buildings in the region have also been destructively affected due to the heavy flowing water. Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured all possible measures to be taken in accordance with the rescue operations at the site of the landslide.
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AIR VIDEOS: Arunvincent, PTC Wayanad pic.twitter.com/TcISMAzxjv
— All India Radio News Trivandrum (@airnews_tvm) July 30, 2024
PM Modi Assures Assistance From The Centre
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed anguish over the incident and assured CM Pinarayi Vijayan of all possible help from the Centre. PM Modi also announced a compensation of Rs. 2 Lakh for the families of those who died. Those injured in the landslides would receive a compensation of Rs. 50,000. Kerala Health Minister Veena George visited the Health Department Directorate and assessed the arrangements for the damage caused due to the massive landslide. Union Minister J P Nadda also expressed his condolences for those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
Over 20 people have reportedly died in landslides and continuing rain fury in many areas in Wayanad, Kerala. Rescue operations are progressing in extremely difficult conditions. Two villages have been isolated due to a bridge collapse.
Our heart goes out to all the families who… pic.twitter.com/uRgiyWxdCP
— Congress Kerala (@INCKerala) July 30, 2024