At least 84 people have lost their lives, and 116 have been injured following massive landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday morning. The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, have left hundreds feared trapped. Rescue operations are being conducted by multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army, after three separate landslides struck Wayanad within four hours.
The worst-affected villages include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. There are fears that many individuals have been swept away in the Chaliyar River.
The Indian Army has deployed 225 personnel, including medical teams, for the rescue efforts. Additionally, two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), are assisting in the operations. Kerala Minister Veena George mentioned that a team from the Indian Navy will also join the rescue efforts. The minister also noted that a bridge connecting the affected areas to Chooralmala town has been washed away. “Around 70 people are injured. We have ensured proper treatment for them,” she said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, assuring him of all possible assistance from the central government. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
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The landslides have caused widespread devastation, with visuals showing uprooted trees and destroyed houses in the district, known for its scenic beauty and tea estates. Floodwaters have washed away vehicles, leaving them entangled in tree trunks. Rescue operations are being hampered by continuous rain and large boulders blocking access routes.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that a team of five ministers has been sent to Wayanad to supervise the relief efforts. “All government systems are working together in the rescue operation. Ministers will visit Wayanad to lead the activities,” the Chief Minister said.
In response to the disaster, a control room has been set up, and emergency helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 have been issued. District authorities report that several families have been relocated to camps or the homes of relatives for safety.
