News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/4th August 2024
As the search and rescue operations in Kerala’s Wayanad enter their sixth day, the situation remains critical with numerous individuals still feared trapped beneath the debris from recent landslides in the Chooralmala and Mundakkai regions. The relentless efforts to locate and rescue survivors are being supported by a massive deployment of resources and personnel.
Wayanad District Collector Meghashree provided an update on the ongoing rescue operations, revealing that over 1,300 personnel are actively engaged in the mission. The operation has been marked by the involvement of various teams, including volunteers, who have been instrumental in the search. However, challenges have arisen, such as volunteers getting stranded in the affected areas. To address these issues, precautionary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of the rescue efforts.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Kerala Chief Minister’s Office has instituted night patrolling in the landslide-affected areas of Chooralmala and Mundakkai. The new measures aim to prevent unauthorized access to the affected sites, ensuring that only those involved in rescue operations can enter these areas after dark. This step is crucial for maintaining order and safety amidst the chaotic circumstances.
On Saturday, significant progress was made with the assistance of the Indian Air Force, which airlifted advanced radars from Siachen and Delhi to enhance the search operations. Additionally, the Indian Coast Guard, Indian Army, and Indian Air Force successfully rescued three individuals who were stranded at Soochipara Waterfalls, a location severely impacted by the landslides.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his gratitude to the Tamil Nadu government for their generous contribution of Rs 5 crore towards relief efforts in Wayanad. This support comes in the wake of the devastating landslides that have claimed over 300 lives in the state, underscoring the severity of the disaster.
As of the latest reports, the death toll from the landslides, which struck on July 30, has reached 308. Kerala Health Minister Veena George confirmed that 215 bodies and 143 body parts have been recovered so far. The recovery process includes 98 males, 87 females, and 30 children. Post-mortem procedures have been completed on 212 bodies and 140 body parts, with 148 of the deceased identified by their relatives.
The magnitude of this disaster has highlighted the urgent need for continued and coordinated rescue and relief efforts. The authorities are working tirelessly to manage the crisis and provide aid to those affected by this catastrophic event. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing operations aiming to locate and rescue any remaining survivors and support the grieving families during this challenging time.
