Massive landslides struck several hilly areas near Meppadi in the Wayanad district of Kerala early on Tuesday, claiming numerous lives. Several people are injured and various others are feared trapped under the debris. At least 44 bodies were recovered and several people were reportedly missing.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has mobilized Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected area where hundreds are suspected to be trapped. An additional NDRF team along with two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps are also on their way to assist.
Heavy rainfall has hindered rescue efforts. Many people were feared washed away in the Chaliyar River flowing to the Nilambur region in Malappuram, officials have said.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has sought army assistance and a \Defence PRO said on Tuesday that a team of 43 personnel, led by the Second-in-Command from the 122 Infantry Battalion (TA) MADRAS, has been mobilised to aid in the ongoing rescue efforts. The team, comprising a Medical Officer, two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and 40 soldiers, is equipped to provide critical assistance in the affected area.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the landslide, stating, “My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones, and my prayers are with the injured.” He spoke with Chief Minister Vijayan and assured that the central government would provide all possible assistance in response to the situation.
Additionally, he announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased individual and Rs. 50,000 for those who have been injured.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition and former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi also extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and said, “I hope those still trapped are brought to safety soon… I have requested them to ensure coordination with all agencies, set up a control room, and inform us of any assistance needed for the relief efforts.”