Wayanad landslides: Two landslides occurred in the Mundakkai and Chooramala areas of Vellarimala village, disrupting the lives of the people.
In Wayanad, the picturesque hamlets of Mundakkai, Chooramala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, known for their serene beauty, have been turned into scenes of devastation due to two significant landslides in the Vellarimala village, under the Meppadi Panchayat. These tragic events have claimed the lives of over 120 individuals and injured 128 more. The landslides caused widespread destruction, demolishing homes, swelling water bodies, and uprooting trees, which impeded rescue operations.
Wayanad, a hill district in northern Kerala, is renowned for its lush forests, rolling hills, and sparkling waterfalls. Home to a population of approximately 8,17,000 (as per the 2011 census), it boasts diverse cultures, including indigenous tribal communities.
Here are 10 crucial points about the Wayanad landslides:
1. Death Toll Rises: According to PTI, the official death toll has surged to 123, including women and children. Around 128 individuals have been hospitalised, with many others stranded due to continuous heavy rainfall in Wayanad.
2. Weather Alert: The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for very heavy rains in Kerala today.
3. Affected Districts: The Met Office has also issued an orange alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts.
4. Condolences from UN: Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, expressed his condolences on the “devastating” landslides in Wayanad. “On behalf of @UNinIndia, we are deeply saddened by the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all affected, in solidarity with first responders undertaking courageous relief efforts,” Sharp posted on X.
5. Financial Aid: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has offered ₹5 crore as aid to Kerala, while Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has offered ₹2 crore.
6. State Mourning: The Chief Minister has declared two days of official mourning for the tragic loss of lives. Public events and celebrations will not be held, and the national flag will be flown at half-mast during this period.
7. Postponed Visits: Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who were scheduled to visit Wayanad today, have postponed their trip due to the ongoing heavy rains.
8. Ex Gratia Announcements: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. He also assured Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan of all possible assistance.
9. Relief Camps Established: Forty-five relief camps have been set up, accommodating 3,069 people in Wayanad. Various rescue agencies resumed their operations early in the morning to locate those suspected to be trapped in the tragedy. So far, the landslides have resulted in at least 123 deaths and 186 injuries. There are fears that the death toll may rise as several people are suspected to be still trapped under the debris.
10. Data Compilation: A district administration official told reporters that a special team at the District Emergency Operation Centre is compiling data on the number of people residing in the area, those found after the landslide, and the number of persons missing. This data is being collected by reviewing ration card details and other government documents.
The Wayanad landslides have had a devastating impact on the region, claiming many lives and causing widespread destruction. As rescue operations continue and support pours in, the resilience and solidarity of the people of Wayanad and their allies will be crucial in overcoming this disaster.
If you wish to support the relief efforts, consider donating to reputable organizations involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of those affected by the Wayanad landslides.
