The Kerala government has declared two days of mourning following the devastating landslides in Wayanad, which have tragically claimed at least 84 lives. The disaster, triggered by relentless heavy rainfall, has prompted a red alert from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for several districts in Kerala until July 31.
A red alert, indicating extremely heavy rainfall, has been issued for the districts of Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasargod. An orange alert is also in place for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts.
The situation in Wayanad is particularly dire. The landslides, which occurred early Tuesday, have caused extensive damage, destroying homes, flooding areas, and uprooting trees. Villages like Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha have been severely affected and are now isolated due to the landslides.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the statewide mourning on Tuesday, July 30, and Wednesday, July 31, as a mark of respect for the victims. The Kerala revenue minister’s office has confirmed that 84 lives have been lost, and 116 people have been injured. The rescue efforts are ongoing, but they face significant challenges due to the adverse weather conditions.
Kerala Chief Secretary Dr V Venu has described the situation as ‘grave’. “We have about 70 plus bodies that have reached our hospitals. Steps are being taken for inquest and postmortem,” he said. Later, it was confirmed that the death toll had risen to 80.
The red alert has also impeded rescue operations. Dr Venu mentioned that rescue helicopters have been unable to take off due to the weather conditions. “Air rescues and the air-dropping of supplies have been postponed,” he stated. “The challenge is that we can only do rescue by surface. That is hampered because there is a very strong water current and the bridge has collapsed. The NDRF is there in strength, we have backup of the Army. We have received offers of support from other formations as well.”
Responding to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s request, a Navy River Crossing team is being dispatched, according to the Chief Minister’s Office. The Army and Air Force have also been mobilised for rescue operations in Chooralmala, where efforts are being hindered by the collapse of a main bridge.
In a show of solidarity, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has directed the release of ₹5 crore for relief efforts in Kerala and has instructed officials to deploy a rescue team to assist with the ongoing operations.
The tragedy in Wayanad highlights the devastating impact of extreme weather conditions. The state of Kerala is currently facing a grave situation, with rescue efforts continuing despite significant challenges. As the state mourns the loss of lives, the combined efforts of local authorities, the Army, and the Air Force provide a glimmer of hope for those affected.
Stay informed about weather updates and safety advisories. Consider contributing to relief efforts to support the affected communities. Share this information to raise awareness about the critical situation in Kerala.
