Kerala: Several dead and hundreds feared trapped in a massive landslide in Wayanad

The most critical aspect of the rescue operation is to complete it as quickly as possible. Once the sun sets, the number of challenges multiplies. The disaster response force, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, is on the ground. Here is the latest update: 106 people have been confirmed dead, and at least 100 are still missing. It’s a race against time, with destruction, deluge, and death stalking Kerala, especially in Wayanad, where deadly landslides have struck multiple locations.

The bodies of victims have been recovered from destroyed homes, with dozens buried under piles of mud. Destroyed houses, slanted water bodies, and matted trees dot the tiered landscape. This once picturesque hamlet has turned into a scene of devastation. Multiple people crawled away and buried themselves in the dirt, but rescue teams, including the NDRF and the Fire Force, have started operations. These teams are specially trained and come from various parts of the state. 

The Chief Minister is coordinating with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and NDRF to search for survivors despite the ongoing heavy rain, which complicates the rescue efforts. Special teams, including forensic surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and pediatric surgeons, have been deployed. Teams have been sent to Wayanad, and additional personnel are arriving from other locations.

Many children are among the dead and those still missing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and central assistance has been announced. A special officer has been appointed to oversee the situation in Wayanad, and the Chief Minister has sent a team of five ministers to coordinate rescue operations.

Kerala is also facing severe rains, leading to multiple landslides. Rescue teams are racing against time to extricate survivors still buried under massive mounds of debris. 

Reported by Shilpa Nair, Shi Beamol, and SG Raj in Wayanad Bureau, India Today.