Wayanad, July 31: The Indian Army has launched a massive rescue operation in Kerala’s Wayanad district following a devastating landslide, which has claimed the lives of at least 151 people, with many as 1000 still missing.
Heavy rainfall triggered the disaster on Tuesday and the district is still grappling to revive.
The landslides caused widespread destruction in the popular tourist destination. Rescue efforts are underway, with the Indian Army, Air Force, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) working together to search for survivors and recover bodies.
The Indian Army has outlined its relief and rescue operations plan, which includes the construction of a temporary bridge and aerial reconnaissance. So far, nearly 1,000 people have been rescued, and around 70 bodies have been recovered by the Indian Army. A fresh column of troops from the Gorkha regiment is expected to arrive in the region shortly to assist in the efforts.
Hundreds more are feared trapped with government agencies carrying out rescue operation in the affected areas. Several families have reported that their loved ones remain untraceable.
The disaster has damaged nearly 350 of the 400 registered houses in the affected region, leaving hundreds feared trapped under debris. The focus of the rescue operations is to search the entire uphill area for stranded people and recover as many bodies as possible.
Kerala has been battered by incessant rain in the region, with blocked roads complicating relief efforts. The state recorded 372 mm rainfall in 24 hours before three landslides hit Wayanad district in four hours.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday morning and assured all help to the LDF government. He has also asked BJP chief JP Nadda to ensure that party workers assist in rescue work.
The Prime Minister’s Office has announced compensation of Rs. 2 lakh for the families of those killed in the calamity. Those injured would be given Rs. 50,000.
The state Health Department has also opened a control room. Those in need of emergency assistance can contact authorities on helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833.
Read: Assam: Body of kidnapped 12-year-old boy recovered in Arunachal Pradesh
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