As search and rescue operations continue into the 15th day, experts are likely to evaluate the landslide-ravaged regions of Wayanad, Kerala, where over 128 individuals remain missing.
The largest natural disaster ever recorded in the state, the catastrophic landslide that struck on 30 July, has now claimed 416 lives.
A specialized team, led by John Mathai, a former scientist from the National Centre for Earth Science Studies, will undertake a crucial inspection of the most severely affected areas.
Mathai’s team aims to assess the extent of damage in four villages that were once vibrant communities before the disaster. They will assess the structural integrity of partially damaged homes to decide whether to salvage or demolish them.
The team will also strategize on necessary recovery efforts for these devastated areas.
Simultaneously, search efforts in the Chaliyar River; originating in Wayanad and flowing through Malappuram are ongoing.
Rescue teams have recovered over 50 bodies and more than 158 body parts from the river and continue their grim task. On Monday, teams retrieved additional body parts and sent them for DNA testing.
In response to the crisis, over 11,000 displaced individuals are currently residing in more than 100 relief camps.
Kerala Residents Skeptical Of Government Promises After Past Landslide Failures
Local Self Government officials are preparing to transition residents back into their homes, with plans in place to move people in phases from the relief camps to over 250 identified, but locked, homes.
Despite the Kerala government’s assurances of support, there remains a deep-seated skepticism among locals due to past experiences.
Five years ago, a similar landslide in Puthumala, just 2.5 kilometers from one of the affected villages, resulted in 17 deaths and widespread property damage.
Residents like Razeena, who lost 16 cents of land in the Puthumala disaster, report that promises of compensation have yet to be fulfilled, leaving them to navigate a cycle of temporary housing and unmet assurances.
The ongoing efforts to address the devastation and support the affected communities continue amidst the challenging circumstances of one of Kerala’s worst natural disasters.
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