Wayanad Landslide: Rescue team face problems in operations, 106 deaths reported

Wayanad in Kerala is facing a devastating landslide leaving the area struck with deadly consequences, taking away more than 106 lives and leaving the community demolished with immense loss. The disaster took place in the initial hours of July 28 and situated in one of the most serene but vulnerable regions of the Southern India.

Wayanad in crisis

The landslide, currently to be seen as one of the worst in recent memory for the regions of Meppadi, has led to the loss of at least 106 lives, with several others injured and missing. Rescue operations have been hampered by continuous rainfall and unstable geographical conditions, making it difficult for teams to access the affected disaster prone regions. The scale of the tragedy has received immediate response from the local administration, the Indian Army, and various humanitarian and rescue organizations.

Authorities are focusing on immediate relief initiatives, including provision of isolated shelter, ample food, and medical first aid to those affected. Temporary relief camps have been set up in safer areas, and the government is coordinating with NGOs to ensure that assistance reaches the most affected civilians.

Political Reactions

Kerela’s Chief Sec. Dr. V Venu has expressed grave concerns in regard of the disaster’s location as it is a very isolated and result of which are reflection in the inaccessibility of the rescue forces. The Indian Air Force has deployed two helicopters for rescue operations but are unable to provide much assistance. He also informed that the helicopters could not take off due to Red Alert in the region issued by Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has warned of further potential landslides as rain continues to fall, raising concerns for additional casualties. The Forest Minister AK Saseendran have reported that more than 60 people are being treated in the local hospitals of Wayanad. The CMS of the affected state Kerela and the neighboring state Tamil Nadu shared assurances regarding the disaster and Stalin has committed for complete support and assistance.

The landslidev in Wayanad has also sparked a broader conversation about the impact of climate change and the escalating frequency of extreme weather conditions. The heavy monsoon rains, exacerbated by changing climatic conditions, have intensified the risks associated with landslides. This disaster underscores the urgent need for better land management practices and early warning systems to mitigate the impact of such events in the future.