‘Indian Army Ki Jai’: Wayanad’s Emotional Send-Off to Indian Army and Canine Units After Landslide Rescue
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/9th August 2024
In the aftermath of the devastating landslides that struck Kerala’s Wayanad district, the local community came together in a heartfelt display of gratitude to bid an emotional farewell to the Indian Army personnel who played a crucial role in the rescue operations. The soldiers, along with their dedicated canine units, received a warm and grand send-off from the residents, who were deeply moved by their heroic efforts.
A video shared by the Kochi Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) captured the poignant moment as the soldiers prepared to depart from their temporary accommodation. The video shows the soldiers of the 122 Infantry Battalion of the Territorial Army being greeted with loud applause from the gathered locals. The scene was a testament to the deep appreciation and respect the people of Wayanad have for the brave soldiers who risked their lives to save others during the landslides.
The soldiers were also honored by the teachers and staff of Mount Tabor School, where the rescue teams were stationed during the operations. This gesture underscored the strong bond that had formed between the rescue teams and the local community during the challenging days of the operation. The school staff’s acknowledgment of the soldiers’ bravery added an extra layer of emotion to the farewell, making it a memorable event for all involved.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Kochi Defence PRO expressed the Army’s gratitude for the support they received from the Wayanad community. The post read, “We are deeply grateful to our brave heroes who risked everything during the landslide rescue operations. Your courage and sacrifice won’t be forgotten.” The message resonated with the sentiments of the locals, who had witnessed firsthand the selfless dedication of the soldiers.
As the soldiers departed, the residents of Wayanad formed a human chain, chanting patriotic slogans such as “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and “Indian Army ki Jai.” This powerful display of unity and nationalism highlighted the deep connection between the armed forces and the citizens they protect. The Wayanad district administration also organized a formal farewell ceremony for the Army personnel involved in the rescue and search efforts, further cementing the strong relationship between the military and the local community.
Colonel Paramvir Singh Nagra, in an interview with ANI, reflected on the joint efforts that led to the successful rescue operations. He credited the leadership of Major General Mathew and the overwhelming support from local volunteers and the administration for the effectiveness of the mission. Colonel Nagra noted that volunteers came not just from Wayanad but from all over Kerala and even neighboring Tamil Nadu, showcasing the solidarity and resilience of the people during this crisis.
The landslides, triggered by relentless heavy rainfall on July 31, caused widespread devastation across several villages in Wayanad, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. Thousands of people were rescued by various agencies, including the Army and Navy, yet official reports indicate that 138 individuals remain missing. The scale of the disaster has prompted the Kerala government to request that the landslides be classified as a “national or severe disaster.”
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the affected areas in Wayanad on August 10, to assess the damage and offer support to the victims. The visit is expected to bring national attention to the plight of the affected communities and the ongoing recovery efforts.
The landslides in Wayanad have claimed over 400 lives, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The continuous heavy rainfall that has plagued the region has not only caused immense loss of life but has also tested the resilience and strength of the communities affected. The emotional farewell to the Indian Army and their canine units serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who work tirelessly to protect and save others in times of crisis.
