The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Wayanad district and four other northern districts of Kerala, following devastating landslides that have claimed over 290 lives. IMD Kerala director Neetha K Gopal stated that while rain will continue, there will be some clear spells offering brief relief to rescue teams.
Piyush Anand, Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), reported that four teams are currently active in Wayanad, with additional teams working to manage the crisis. The Indian Army has rapidly constructed the Cl 24 Bailey Bridge to reconnect Chooralmala and Mundakkai over the Iruvanipzha River.
In response to the crisis, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, visited Wayanad, expressing solidarity with the affected families. He emphasized the need for immediate assistance over political discourse, reflecting on the profound personal and collective loss experienced. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi accompanied him, sharing the immense tragedy and the need for collective support.
DMK MP Tiruchi N Siva highlighted the importance of learning from such tragedies and improving coordination between central and state governments. Congress MP Jebi Mather also expressed deep sorrow and called for collaborative efforts to restore normalcy.
In support of the disaster relief efforts, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has launched a campaign for the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF), with significant contributions coming in. Additionally, a campaign titled “Vattiyoorkavu Stands with Wayanad,” led by MLA VK Prashanth, aims to mobilize local and business contributions.
NDRF DIG Mohsen Shahidi confirmed that over 200 deaths have been declared and recovery operations are ongoing. International sand artist Sudarsan Patnaik has created a sand sculpture at Puri beach in Odisha, paying tribute to the victims and acknowledging the efforts of rescue and military personnel.
The landslides, which struck Mundakkai and Churalmala on July 30, have caused extensive destruction and significant loss of life, as reported by the Kerala Revenue Department.
