As rescue operations extended into the fifth day on Saturday, the death toll from the landslides and floods in Wayanad has reached 344, with 206 individuals still reported missing.
A robust rescue team of over 1,500 personnel, including members of all Defence forces, NDRF, SDRF, police, fire service, and volunteers, began their search efforts early Saturday morning.
The focus targets four severely affected areas: Churalmala, Velarimala, Mundakayil, and Punchirimadom.
Authorities have identified 146 bodies, while the identities of 74 victims remain unknown.
Tragically, among the dead are 30 children.
Authorities have also recovered numerous dismembered body parts from the debris, adding to the grim task of identification.
Approximately 9,500 displaced individuals have been relocated to around 100 relief camps.
Meanwhile, 84 people are currently receiving medical treatment in various district hospitals.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohanlal Visits Affected Areas, Meets Rescue Teams In Wayanad
On Saturday morning, actor Mohanlal, who holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the 122 Territorial Army attached to the Kannur unit, visited the affected areas with his unit.
Dressed in military attire, he first arrived at the base camp in Meppadi, where he met with Defence personnel before proceeding to Churalmala to interact with the rescue teams.
The scale of the disaster has prompted a massive response effort, with teams working tirelessly to locate and assist survivors amidst challenging conditions.
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