Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and offered all possible help from the Centre.
Published Jul 30, 2024 | 12:47 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 30, 2024 | 10:39 PM
People stranded due to Wayanad landslides being rescued
Bodies of over 120 people who died in the Wayanad landslides have been recovered so far by rescue personnel. However, it is going to be difficult to identify most of them because of the extensive damage they suffered.
Meanwhile, over 100 people are still estimated to be missing and over 3,000 have been moved to relief camps across the state. The IMD has forecast heavy rain for five more days and red alert has been issued to eight districts in Kerala.
As of noon on Tuesday, 30 July, Kerala deployed the entire state machinery and also roped in the Indian armed forces.
State Minister of Forest AK Saseendran termed the landslides “a very severe natural disaster,” and said it occurred at 2 am, when most people were asleep.
“A joint rescue operation is underway at the disaster site with the participation of NDRF, police, fire, revenue, voluntary organizations, volunteers, locals, and natives. Treatment has been ensured for the injured at hospitals. More ministers will arrive in the district to coordinate the rescue operations,” said the minister.
The Chooralmala landslide in Meppadi's Mundakkai region has destroyed over three kilometres of high-tension lines and more than eight kilometres of low-tension lines. Two transformers were washed away, and six were damaged. Over 1,000 consumers lost power, with preliminary damage estimated to be at 30 million rupees.
Due to the loss of major infrastructure and ongoing rescue operations, damage assessment and power restoration in the disaster zone are still pending. However, electricity has been restored to nearby areas. Efforts are underway to repair damaged lines and restore power to approximately 2,000 consumers. Essential materials and manpower are in place for restoration work.
Priyanka and I were scheduled to visit Wayanad tomorrow to meet with families affected by the landslide and take stock of the situation.
However, due to incessant rains and adverse weather conditions we have been informed by authorities that we will not be able to land.
I…
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 30, 2024
Meanwhile, in Vadakara, power is off in the Parappupara and Parakkadavu sections due to flooding and landslides. Transformers and poles have been damaged, affecting around 27,970 consumers. The Sreekandapuram circle has also seen significant damage, with flooding and landslides impacting various areas. Power restoration efforts are ongoing, with additional KSEB personnel deployed to the Malabar region
After an hours-long mission, a man who was covered in mud and desperately clinging to a huge boulder to survive the flood waters gushing past him in landslide-hit Wayanad on Tuesday, 30 July was rescued.
Visuals of the hapless man's attempt to survive amidst scattered boulders in the floodwater came from Mundakkai village, where hundreds of people are reportedly trapped following the deadly landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in the early hours of Tuesday. Helpless local residents could do nothing but watch the man's struggle and urged authorities to swiftly rescue him.
Indian Air Force in action during the #WayanadLandslide
Air Force personnel said that despite adverse climatic condition & poor visibility, the helicopters conducted search and rescue operations in #Wayanad rescuing stranded people from narrow strip of land.… pic.twitter.com/wOmUz0UBMq
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) July 30, 2024
Having been washed away by flood water, he had got stuck between huge boulders but was unable to stand or swim to safety due to the thick marsh and strong currents.
The visuals of his ordeal, recorded by one of the villagers, were aired on television channels, in which authorities were urged to send rescue teams to the location as soon as possible. The man was later rescued after an hours-long mission and shifted to a hospital, but no details of his identity or state of health are known.
The Kerala Government Medical Officers' Association (KGMOA) said that it had actively participated in rescue operations, medical assistance, and post-mortem procedures of people affected by the Wayanad landslides.
Medical teams from Kannur and Kozhikode districts also arrived in Wayanad on Tuesday, 30 July.
#WayanadLandslide Disaster:
A high-level meeting was held under the leadership of Chief Minister @pinarayivijayan to coordinate rescue operations in #Wayanad and discuss further actions.
The Chief Minister assessed the rescue operations, including coordination with central… pic.twitter.com/u44OKZbZA8
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) July 30, 2024
The association said that in the coming days, more KGMOA members from other districts will join the medical camps organised by the Health Department and the Wayanad District Committee.
"KGMOA assures its wholehearted support to the disaster relief efforts led by the Kerala government and will actively participate in rehabilitation efforts along with relief work," said it.
The Karnataka Public Works Department (PWD) is undertaking clearance of landslide debris in Wayanad by providing the required JCB, crane and other heavy vehicles from the state.
Chamarajanagar
Chamarajanagar district administration has set up a 24/7 helpline to inform the relatives and acquaintances of unorganised workers from Gundlupet taluk and surrounding areas of the district who go to Wayanad for work regularly. The public have been asked to contact the helpline numbers - 08226223161, 223163, 223160 or WhatsApp number 9740942902.
NDRF Teams Continue Relentless Search and Rescue operations in #WayanadLandslide
Follow our live page for more details:https://t.co/dfbvYYreWz pic.twitter.com/aQ9QH9OxNi
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) July 30, 2024
Route closed
Traffic on Bangalore - Waynad National Highway 766 passing through Gundlupet has been blocked as a precautionary measure. Travellers are advised to use the Gundlupet-Bandipur-Gudalur route instead.
Mysuru
Mysuru district administration has also made all preparations for medical treatment at Heggadevankote Taluk Hospital and KR Hospital, Mysuru. Sufficient buses and vehicles have been lined up to bring the injured to the hospital. Suppliers of cold storage units have been identified to preserve deceased bodies.
Mysuru District Administration Helpline Number: 0821-24223800
Meppadi Grama Panchayat's Chooralmala- ward member CK Noorudeen, who was stranded along with around 250 people in an area isolated due to the Wayanad landslides has been rescued.
Noorudeen is said to have informed the authorities about the landslides and he also sent a live location to help the NDRF team with the rescue operation.
The Indian Army and fire personnel built a temporary bridge together and were finally able to reach and rescue Noorudeen and the others who were trapped.
For those who want to help people affected by the devastating landslides in Wayanad, the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has started a volunteer registration portal.
According to Mayor Arya Rajendran, the Corporation Council is prepared to provide assistance to the landslide victims in Wayanad. "Many people have approached the council with requests to send essential items to the disaster-affected area in Wayanad," said Arya.
NDRF Teams Continue Relentless Search and Rescue operations in #WayanadLandslide
Follow our live page for more details:https://t.co/dfbvYYreWz pic.twitter.com/aQ9QH9OxNi
— South First (@TheSouthfirst) July 30, 2024
According to the Mayor, she spoked to Special Officer Sambasiva Rao and Wayanad District Collector Meghashree and they confirmed that the availability of essential items has been ensured.
"If any additional materials are required, they will contact us. The council is prepared to deliver essential items to any part of the state as needed. If official arrangements are made, collection can begin immediately. If collection points need to be established, the council has initiated volunteer registration procedures to work there and for rescue operations," added Arya.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that all necessary cooperation is being provided for rescue and relief operations in Wayanad, which has been devastated by landslides. He has deputed two IAS officers to coordinate with Kerala state authorities about these operations.
The Chief Minister, currently on a tour in New Delhi, issued a press statement saying that the NDRF team in Bangaluru and teams of the Madras Engineer Group of the Army have been sent to assist in the rescue and relief efforts in Wayanad.
One officer from MEG, along with two JCOs and 70 personnel of various ranks, has already departed for Wayanad in 15 vehicles carrying rescue and relief supplies. Additionally, two more officers, four JCOs, and 100 army personnel equipped with the necessary equipment will depart in 40 vehicles.
To facilitate swift movement of these teams and relief material transport vehicles to Wayanad, instructions have been issued to allow unrestricted passage through the Green Corridor at the Bandipur Check Post, he added.
Further, for the coordination of rescue and relief efforts in Wayanad, senior IAS officers PC Jaffer (who can be reached at 9448355577) and Dilish Sasi (9446000514) have been deputed.
The Chief Minister said that preliminary reports of Kannadigas being stranded in Wayanad have been received, and assured that every effort will be made to rescue them.
Chamarajanagar District Collector office helplines:
Amid incessant rains and the ongoing rescue operations to rescue people buried under the soil after landslides in Wayanad, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has asked people not to travel to the district unnecessarily. Requesting people's cooperation, he insisted that the people prioritise rescue operations and not come in the way of the rescue personnel.
A control room has been opened at the SC/ST Director's office to relocate people from the Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribe communities affected by the rain.
Officials have announced helpline numbers for people suffering due to the heavy rain and the subsequent landslides to reach them. The numbers that can be contacted are:
Toll-free number: 1800-425-2312.
Control rooms have also been opened in the Bathery, Mananthavady and Vythiri areas of Wayanad district.
People can call the district level number - 04936 204151
Or numbers of each control room opened in the district.
For Bathery - 04936-2233355 and 6238461385
For Mananthavady - 04935-2411111 and 9446637748
For Vythiri - 04936 256100 and 8590842965.
Rescue teams are engaged in rescue and search operations at the landslide site in Wayanad.
A helicopter from Coimbatore's Solur arrived at Chooralmala at around 5 pm and began aerial surveillance and air-lifting operations.
The rescue teams include:
- Four NDRF teams comprising 61-members
- 320-member Fire Force team
- 55-member Forest Department team
- 350-member Police team
- 67-member Army team
In addition, hundreds of people are joining the rescue efforts.
Following the landslide, Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda asked state government officials to extend all help and support to Kerala.
"We express our regret at the unfortunate landslide in Wayanad, Kerala. We extend all our support for the rescue operations. I have asked our officers to get in touch with Kerala counterparts to extend our help," he said on X.
We express our regret at the unfortunate landslide in Wayanad, Kerala.
We extend all our support for the rescue operations. I have asked our officers to get in touch with Kerala counterparts to extend our help. #DisasterManagement #GOK pic.twitter.com/7XH204G6EK— Krishna Byre Gowda (@krishnabgowda) July 30, 2024
The Army and Fire Force together built a temporary bridge across the river at Chooralmala during the rescue and relief efforts. This will expedite rescue operations.
Until now, people have been rescued using ropes.
To prevent post-flood diseases, health workers and volunteers wading in water must take Doxycycline, an anti-leptospirosis drug, said Health Minister Veena George.
Measures have been taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in camps. Only boiled water should be consumed to prevent waterborne diseases, she added.
Medicines and safety equipment should be available in flood-prone areas. More medicines have been sent to Wayanad.
The Women and Child Development Department is taking special care of pregnant women and children.
A temporary hospital has been set up in Chooralmala, and additional facilities have been arranged in district hospitals.
More health workers have been deployed to Wayanad.
Teams from Kozhikode and Kannur Medical Colleges have been sent to the landslide site. Surgery, orthopaedic, cardiology, psychiatry, and forensic teams have been deployed. Private hospital doctors and nurses have also been deployed.
Health Minister Veena George has convened an emergency meeting of the State Rapid Response Team (RRT) to discuss the situation in Wayanad following the recent landslide.
The meeting focused on the current situation in the district, the functioning of relief camps, and measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
The minister instructed officials to ensure the availability of medical personnel in relief camps and provide necessary medical facilities.
She also directed officials to take measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and provide necessary assistance to the affected people.
Post-mortem procedures for the 51 deceased have been completed. A special forensic team from Kozhikode was deployed to speed up the process.
Genetic testing has been arranged to identify unidentified bodies. Additional mortuary facilities have been set up, and mobile mortuary facilities have been arranged.
In the wake of the devastating landslides, the chief minister has issued an urgent appeal to the public to contribute generously to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF).
He said, "The state government is taking all necessary steps to help the disaster-affected people and provide relief. No matter what compensation is given, it will not be enough for those who have lost their loved ones."
The CM further added, "However, we must support those who have lost everything in this disaster. During the 2018 floods, Kerala came together to help the affected people, and support came in from all over the world. Similarly, we must come together to help those affected by the recent landslide in Wayanad."
The CM stated that many have already come forward with various forms of assistance.
"But it is not enough. Only with more help can we rebuild that region. I request everyone to contribute to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund to help those in need," added Vijayan.
The CM informed that Kerala Bank has already donated ₹50 lakhs to the CM's fund. CIAL has pledged ₹2 crore, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced ₹5 crore in aid.
Five ministers have been deployed to lead the efforts in Wayanad.
The rescue operations are taking place with the direct supervision of the ministers, along with the necessary arrangements, including the assistance of the army.
The goal is to save as many lives as possible, provide the best treatment to the injured, and relocate others to safe locations, said an official statement.
In Wayanad, 45 relief camps have been opened, and 3,069 people have been moved to these camps.
Across the state, 118 camps are operational, with a total of 5,531 people being housed in them.
Revenue Minister K Rajan assured that those stranded in the affected areas of Chooralmala will be safely rescued.
He was speaking to the media after visiting the disaster-affected area. Food and water will be provided to those stranded in Mundakkai, Chooralmala, and other areas.
Rescue operations will be carried out according to the situation.
The Army, NDRF, and volunteer forces are being deployed to various areas to rescue those stranded.
320 members of the Fire Force and 67 members of the Kannur DSC, along with Malabar Special Police personnel, are leading the rescue efforts.
Rajan requested the public to refrain from gathering at the rescue sites, as it may hinder the rescue operations.
He also mentioned that a temporary bridge will be built to facilitate access to Mundakkai, and materials for this will be brought from Bangalore.
Additional lighting arrangements will be made in the area, and more generators will be brought in.
The Minister emphasised that the rescue efforts are being carried out in an organised manner under the leadership of the chief minister, with everyone working together beyond political affiliations.
He also warned against spreading false information, which could hinder the rescue efforts.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 93 people died and around 128 were injured in the massive landslides in the Wayanad district, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair.
Vijayan said that of the dead, 34 bodies were identified and 18 were handed over to families.
The CM also said that 16 bodies were recovered from the Chaliyar river at Pothukal village in the district. Besides that, body parts were also recovered by those carrying out search and rescue operations, he said.
"Many people were swept away. Around 16 bodies were found in the Chaliyar River near Nilambur in Malappuram district. Body parts were also recovered from here. 34 bodies have been identified, and 18 have been handed over to relatives," he said.
One column of the Territorial Army has reached the mishap site. The Army’s two relief columns with a strength of approximately 200 individuals are on their way to Wayanad.
Additional efforts based on the request of the state government are also being mobilised.
It is learnt that the movement of assets from Madras Engineers Groups is being made from Bangalore by road and Delhi Cantonment by air.
Also, two additional columns from Bengaluru and Trivandrum are being planned to be shifted by the Indian Air Force.
A Control Centre is being established at Calicut under the commandant Para Regimental Centre for monitoring all relief operations.
The required amount of blood to treat the injured people has been stored in blood banks in Wayanad. Blood Donors Kerala has shared a QR code for registration to donate blood.
In case of an emergency, coordinators will contact individuals from the list of registered donors.
At 3 pm on Tuesday, official data confirmed 90 deaths following the landslide in Wayanad.
While 65 deaths are confirmed at various hospitals in the district 25 bodies were recovered from Nilambur in Malappuram as they were washed away. Additionally, eight body parts were also recovered.
While 122 people are being treated at the hospitals, including nine people in the ICU, 98 are still missing.
Around 130 soldiers led by Captain Thushar of 23 Marata Regiment and Captain Sourabh of 2 Madras Regiment from Pangode Military Station are moving towards Wayanad from Thiruvananthapuram.
Maximum team members will be airlifted by IAF Aircraft to Calicut and the rest will proceed by road.
People from various sectors come together to carry out rescue operations in the Chooralmala landslide disaster area in Wayanad.
Kerala Ministers K Rajan, AK Saseendran, Kadanapally Ramachandran, PA Mohammed Riyas, OR Kelu, MLAs T Siddique, IC Balakrishnan, District Panchayat President Shamsad Marakkar, and representatives of various political parties are leading the rescue efforts in Chooralmala.
District Collector RD Meghashree, District Police Chief T Narayanan, representatives of various political parties, voluntary organisations, volunteers, and local residents are providing leadership.
Army platoons, NDRF, Fire Force, Police, Forest Department, Revenue Department, and Local Self-Government Department are leading the rescue efforts with the help of volunteers and local residents. Excavators, earthmoving machines, and ambulances from various parts of the district have been deployed for rescue operations.
A medical team from the Health Department is also present in Chooralmala with all necessary arrangements. The medical team of the Health Department is fully equipped and present in Chooralmala.
A taluk-level control room has started functioning in Chooralmala.
Firefighters and defence personnel from nearby districts have arrived for rescue operations. Six officers and 67 personnel from Kannur DSC, along with equipment and ambulances, have also arrived.
NDRF, Madras Regiment, Defense Service Corps, and volunteer forces are conducting rescue operations using boats in the Mundakkai and Attamala areas
Seventy people have died in landslides in Kerala's Wayanad, several are injured, two have been rescued alive from the debris and 250 moved to safe places, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai told the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
"I would like to express with grief that 70 bodies have been recovered. Many are injured. Two people have so far been rescued alive from the debris and 250 moved to safe places," the minister said.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keeping a close watch on the situation and Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian has been sent to visit the affected area.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George said a temporary hospital system will be established in Churalmala Church, mosque, and Polytechnic College to address the immediate healthcare needs in these areas.
Indian Navy's River Crossing Team on board INS Zamorin will arrive at Wayanad soon. Indian Army's Mechanical Engineering Wing visited the site and is preparing to build a temporary bridge.
The service of the Indian Coast Guard is also ready to arrive if needed. An 89-member team from DSC Kannur is about to reach the site.
Expertly-trained dogs from the Army's elite canine unit of breeds such as Belgian Malinois, Labradors, and German Shepherds, which can smell human remains and even the faintest of breath buried deep under mud, are on their way to the landslide-ravaged Meppadi.
These dogs have been trained for several years at the prestigious Remount Veterinary Corps Centre (RVC) in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.
Based on a special request from the Chief Minister of Kerala, the Canine Squad of the Army, specially trained for operations in disaster areas, will be flown to Wayanad to sniff out signs of life so that people trapped deep under the mud at the landslide site can be rescued, and also to recover the human remains of those who were not fortunate enough to survive nature's onslaught.
A Defence Ministry PRO said that based on the request from the Kerala Government, the Meerut RVC is sending the canine team with expert handlers to Wayanad.
"These dogs are experts in rescuing people from disaster-struck areas and the canine team will be arriving soon at Wayanad," the PRO said.
The Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association has set up food counters for relief camps in Wayanad.
Those in need can contact Aseesh B Nair (State Secretary) at 9447357772, U Subair (District Secretary) at 9847509546, and Aslam Bava (District President) at 7306689625.
Survivors of the massive landslide recount the harrowing experiences of their narrow escape just moments before the tragedy.
An elderly couple recounted their desperate bid for safety as the disaster struck in the dead of night. The couple, whose house was destroyed in the landslide, fled their home at 11 pm after noticing muddy water flowing through their area.
They sought refuge on a nearby hill, but not before trying to save their neighbour, who, according to them, tragically refused to join them.
"We begged him to come with us, but he said he would join us by 1 am. He never came," the elderly man said, his voice cracking with emotion.
He added that they were waiting at the hilltop until morning and when they came back, the whole area was washed away.
Another woman was seen sobbing in front of the media, saying her relative called her and said they were running from their home carrying their toddler.
"She called me in the night and said they were trying to escape from the region. They had a toddler with them. After that, they were unreachable on the phone," she said.
That family is yet to be traced.
In response to the devastating landslides that hit Wayanad, various district administrations and organisations have come together to provide relief materials to the affected individuals.
The collaborative effort aims to support those who have lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones in the disaster.
District administrations are coordinating with local organisations, NGOs, and government agencies to collect and distribute relief materials.
Essential items such as food, water, shelter materials, clothing, and medical supplies are being sourced to provide to the affected communities.
"Deeply saddened on hearing the tragic news of landslide #Wayanad, #Kerala. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. Request the Government authorities that the necessary rescue and relief measures be provided to the affected on a war-footing," Vijay said in a post on X.
Deeply saddened on hearing the tragic news of landslide #Wayanad, #Kerala.
My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families.
Request the Government authorities that the necessary rescue and relief measures be provided to the affected on a war-footing.
— TVK Vijay (@tvkvijayhq) July 30, 2024
Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council in a statement said, "We pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the landslides in Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas of Meppadi region in Wayanad district. We share the pain of those who lost their loved ones and pray for the recovery of those injured. We must work together with government agencies and social organisations to speed up rescue operations. The Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council will fully cooperate with government efforts to provide solace to the victims. We will work together with diocesan teams and volunteers in the affected areas to provide physical assistance, comfort, and courage to overcome the crisis."
In view of the continuing heavy rain in the state, the Chief Secretary has directed that the leaves of officials be cancelled and they should report for duty immediately.
A team of Indian Navy from INS Zamorin and Naval Academy Ezhimala along with medical team joined the rescue and relief operations in Chooramala.
A team of 130 soldiers will be travelling to Wayanad from Pangode Military Station Thiruvananthapuram to join the rescue operations.
Following the massive landslide and the numerous number of lives lost, the Kerala government declared official mourning for two days - 30 July and 31 July.
An official statement reads, "The government expresses deep sorrow over the loss of many lives and damage to properties due to the natural disaster that occurred in Chooralmala, Wayanad district. In the backdrop of this disaster, official mourning has been declared in the state on 30 and 31 July, 2024. During this period, the national flag should be flown at half-mast across the state, and the government has decided to postpone the scheduled public ceremonies and celebrations."
Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan said two NDRF teams are actively deployed in Wayanad.
"One more team is being sent, which is coming from Bangalore. Two teams of Defense Security Forces are also being brought to Wayanad. Two Indian Air Force choppers are available," he said.
He said due to bad weather, the helicopters are unable to take off from Kozhikode.
"One wing of the Military Engineering team will arrive soon," he said.
According to state government officials, the death toll following the landslide rose to 83.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister GR Anil directed the officials of the Food and Civil Supplies Department and Supplyco to provide all necessary support to the disaster relief operations in coordination with the district administration.
The department has taken all necessary steps to ensure the distribution of food grains and essential commodities to the camps.
The minister has instructed to utilise the services of Supplyco and Food and Civil Supplies Department officials from the district and neighbouring districts to provide essential commodities to the disaster relief camps on a war footing.
The minister has also directed to take immediate action to provide food and other essential items to the affected people.
The Kerala Police have requested people not to visit the landslides-hit areas. "It will affect the relief works," the police said on X.
The police also asked people to dial 112 for help.
ദയവായി കാഴ്ചകൾ കാണാൻ ദുരന്ത പ്രദേശങ്ങളിലേക്ക് പോകരുത്🙏🏻
അത് രക്ഷാപ്രവർത്തനത്തെ ബാധിക്കുംസഹായങ്ങൾക്ക് 112 എന്ന നമ്പറിൽ വിളിക്കാം #keralapolice pic.twitter.com/D6irnQICNJ
— Kerala Police (@TheKeralaPolice) July 30, 2024
Local Self Government Minister MB Rajesh announced that employment guarantee workers will also be deployed in disaster relief operations.
Workers can be assigned to remove soil from areas with minor landslides, clear roadblocks, and clean drains.
The services of employment guarantee workers can also be utilized to remove garbage and silt flowing into public spaces.
The NDRF has deployed one team while three more are on the way to Wayanad to undertake rescue and relief operations, officials said.
These floodwater and landslide rescue teams are armed with various tools, pole and wire cutting machines, inflatable boats and basic medicines, they said.
One team is already working in the area while one each is being rushed in from Kerala, Arakkonam in Tamil Nadu and Bengaluru.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Deputy Inspector General (DIG) (Operations) Mohsen Shahedi said the teams will be assisting the state government authorities and other agencies deployed for rescue work in Wayanad.
CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury expressed grief over the loss of lives in landslides and urged the Centre to provide all assistance to the state.
"Deeply grieved and agonised at the death of (a) large number of people... in the unprecedented monstrous landslides in Wayanadu, Kerala," Yechury said in a post on X.
"Kerala people have always risen in unison to meet the challenges of national disasters. The Union Government must render all possible assistance to the State Government's efforts to ensure no more lives are lost," he said.
Deeply grieved and agonised at the death of large number of people (currently estimated as over 60, but rising) in the unprecedented monstrous landslides in Wayanadu, Kerala.
Kerala people have always risen in unison to meet the challenges of national disasters.
The Union… pic.twitter.com/N5TydGFmtV— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) July 30, 2024
The CPI(M) announced that its supporters will actively participate in the rescue and relief operations in Wayanad, which is grappling with the crisis.
According to CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan, party supporters will be deployed to provide all necessary assistance in Wayanad and other affected areas.
Political parties like the Congress, CPI, BJP and others have also made a similar decision.
Temporary hospital facilities will be set up at a mosque and madrasa in Chooralmala, Wayanad, to aid the ongoing relief efforts, says Kerala Health Minister's Office.
"Karnataka is committed to providing all possible help to Kerala in this challenging time. Let's stand united and strong," Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Deeply saddened by the catastrophic floods in Wayanad. My heart goes out to the affected families. Karnataka is committed to providing all possible help to Kerala in this challenging time. Let's stand united and strong.#WayanadFloods
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) July 30, 2024
Kerala government has sought the assistance of the Indian Army's dog squad in the search operations in Wayanad.
The Army will deploy its dog squad from the Remount Veterinary Corps, Meerut.
Additionally, the Kerala Forest Department's drones will also be utilised to aid the search efforts.
In response to the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed solidarity with the affected people of Kerala.
Tamil Nadu has pledged financial assistance of ₹5 crore for rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
In a gesture of support, Tamil Nadu is dispatching two teams led by IAS officers to aid the relief operations. Additionally, a medical team comprising doctors and nurses, along with a Fire and Rescue Services team, will be sent to assist in the efforts.
Stalin conveyed his support and solidarity in a phone conversation with Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan. He assured that Tamil Nadu stands united with Kerala during this challenging time.
"We will overcome this crisis together!" Stalin said on X, reaffirming the shared commitment to support the affected people.
വയനാട്ടിലെ ഉരുൾപൊട്ടൽ ദുരന്തത്തിൽ ബാധിക്കപ്പെട്ട മലയാളി സഹോദരങ്ങളുടെ ദുഃഖത്തിൽ തമിഴ്നാട് പങ്കുചേരുന്നു.
രക്ഷാപ്രവർത്തനത്തിനും പുനരധിവാസത്തിനുമായി ഞങ്ങൾ 5 കോടി രൂപ നൽകുന്നു. IAS ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥരുടെ നേതൃത്വത്തിൽ രണ്ട് സംഘങ്ങളെ സഹായിക്കാൻ അയക്കുന്നുണ്ട്. ഇത് കൂടാതെ, ഞങ്ങൾ ഡോക്ടർമാരും… pic.twitter.com/baFLhoiEUh
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) July 30, 2024
The death toll in the series of landslides that wreaked havoc in Wayanad has touched 66.
Rescue operations are in full swing with the armed forces joining in to save lives.
A 50-member team from the Indian Navy will reach Wayanad shortly. The team is from the Navy's River Crossing Team.
The Navy team from the Ezhimala Naval Academy will also include medical experts.
Due to the rise in water level in the Kadanthara river, people living near the riverbanks in Prikkanthodu, Center Mukk, and Peedikapara areas of Kozhikode district have been evacuated to the Nellikunnu shelter.
The water level in the Kakkyam Dam has risen, and two shutters have been opened in different stages, each by four feet. People living near the Kuttiyadi riverbanks have been warned to be cautious.
Due to heavy rainfall, the water level in the Poonoor river, Mahi river, Kuttiyadi river, Chaliyar, and Cherupuzha rivers has reached dangerous levels.
People living near the riverbanks have been warned to be cautious. Tourist destinations in the district have been closed due to heavy rainfall, and quarry operations have also been stopped.
In Kozhikode district, 854 people from 196 families are living in 41 relief camps. Hundreds of people have been evacuated to their relatives' homes. People living in areas prone to landslides have been instructed to shift to safer place.
A landslide occurred in the Vilangad area of Kozhikode district and one person is missing.
The search operation is underway led by NDRF. The landslide also damaged the Malangad bridge, and four houses near the riverbank were partially destroyed.
Fifteen families are stranded due to the landslide. There are no reports of casualties.
People living near the riverbanks have been evacuated.
Another landslide occurred on Kaitappoyil-Anorammal Valliyad Roa, and 80 meters of the road is buried under the debris.
Seven families have been evacuated from the area. In Kuttiyadi Maruthonkara village, a landslide occurred in the Pasukkadav area.
Local Self-Government Minister MB Rajesh said that the government is taking all possible measures to rescue those affected by the disaster.
Local self-government institutions will take the lead in relief efforts.
"Without waiting for special orders or instructions, the presidents and secretaries of local self-government institutions should make appropriate decisions after assessing the disaster situation and consulting with the Disaster Management Authority. Local self-government institutions will work with the Disaster Management Authority to relocate people from disaster-prone areas to camps," said the minister.
He further added, "Local self-government institutions have been instructed to immediately provide clean drinking water, food, and other amenities to those in camps and those who have been isolated."
Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi said in the Lok Sabha that more than 70 people have been killed in the landslides and demanded that the Centre extend all possible support for the rescue and rehabilitation of those affected.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Gandhi also sought enhanced compensation to the next of kin of those killed in the landslides and restoration of vital transport and communication lines.
"Early this morning, Wayanad was hit by several devastating landslides. More than 70 people have been killed. Mundakkai village has been cut off and the devastating loss of lives and extensive damage is yet to be assessed due to the scale of the tragedy," Gandhi said.
The Congress leader, who was a representative from Wayanad in the Lok Sabha, said he had spoken to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the Kerala chief minister.
Early this morning, Wayanad was hit by several devastating landslides. More than 70 people have been killed. Mundakkai village has been cut off, and the devastating loss of lives and extensive damage is yet to be assessed due to the scale of the tragedy.
I have spoken to the… pic.twitter.com/t9bEXM0oAw
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 30, 2024
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to evacuate those stranded, with the Indian Army joining the efforts. Besides the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the state government has also deployed disaster response teams from the police and the fire force to affected areas.
Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages are among the areas affected and cut off by the series of landslides.
Kerala MPs have called for the suspension of Parliament proceedings to address the severe landslide disaster at Meppadi Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad. The Opposition staged a protest in the Lok Sabha, insisting on a debate.
The Speaker proposed discussing the issue during Zero Hour, leading to further disruptions by Kerala MPs.
In the Rajya Sabha, a notice for an urgent motion has been filed by P Santosh Kumar and PV Abdul Wahab, with MP K Radhakrishnan requesting additional central government assistance.
Shafi Parambil announced that MPs will visit the affected areas. The issue is also expected to be raised in Parliament.
Health Minister Veena George has asked her department officials to accurately assess the number of vacant hospital beds in hospitals in the area
If necessary, temporary hospitals should be set up. The mortuary system should be assessed.
The minister also instructed to utilise mobile mortuary services.
The control room should function 24 hours a day to assist health workers and the public, the minister said.
The possibility of bringing in Rapid Action Medical Units (108 ambulances) from other states to the affected area should be explored.
The functioning of relief camps should be assessed. Health workers' services should be ensured in the camps. Disease prevention is crucial, she said.
A Defence PRO said a team of 43 personnel, led by the Second-in-Command from the 122 Infantry Battalion (TA) MADRAS, has been mobilised to aid in the ongoing rescue efforts.
The team, comprising a Medical Officer, two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and 40 soldiers, is equipped to provide critical assistance in the affected area.
Their deployment aims to augment existing rescue operations and provide relief to those affected by the landslides.
Nine bodies swept away by the Chaliyar River were recovered in the neighbouring Malappuram district.
In the wake of the landslides, the Wayanad district administration has people to provide essential items like clothing, food, and drinking water to families affected by the calamity at Mundakkai in Vellarimala Village, Vythiri Taluk.
Officials said that those willing can contact the District Collector's Control Room.
They also reminded people to ensure that only unused clothing and packaged food items are provided.
Contact number: 8848446621.
Minister of State George Kurian is heading to Wayanad as directed by the Prime Minister's Office.
He will coordinate with NDRF, paramilitary forces, state govt officials, and other agencies in the operation.
An army platoon has arrived at Chooralmala for search and rescue operations.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said his government "is willing to extend any logistical or manpower support that may be needed in this hour of crisis to our brother state Kerala.
Deeply pained to learn about the massive landslides in #Wayanad and the consequent loss of priceless lives.
I am given to understand that many people are still trapped in the area. I am sure the rescue operations that are in full swing will save them all.
The government of…
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) July 30, 2024
The death toll in Wayanad landslides touches 54. Many more people feared trapped in the debris.
