Kerala's Wayanad Landslides: Death Toll Rises to 100+

Published On: July 30, 2024 - In the latest update on the devastating landslides that have struck Kerala's Wayanad district, the death toll has tragically risen to 93. Reports indicate that nearly 100 individuals are trapped under debris, and around 450 families are stranded following the collapse of a bridge in Chooral Mala town. The landslides, which hit Meppadi, Mundakkai, and Chooral Mala hills, have caused extensive damage, with several houses washed away and around 50 people hospitalized with serious head injuries. The first landslide occurred at 1 AM in Mundakkai, followed by another at Chooral Mala at 4 AM, complicating ongoing rescue efforts. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has deployed Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the site, with three additional NDRF teams en route. The Army has mobilized four columns, including two from the 122 Infantry Battalion and two from the DSC Centre, Kannur, totaling approximately 225 personnel, including medical teams. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakhs from the PMNRF for the families of each deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured. The heavy rainfall is hindering rescue operations, and the full extent of the disaster remains unclear due to a power shutdown in the region. The IMD has issued a Red Alert for Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kasaragod districts, and an Orange Alert for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts.