Things are still dreadful in Wayanad, Kerala as the deaths caused by the recent landslides have passed 300 while more than 200 persons are injured. The public atmosphere is still gloomy after the large-scale destruction in places like Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala and Noolpuzha due to violent earth movements since July 30th 2024.
Important Advancements:
- Rescue Activities: The Indian Army, the NDRF, and other organizations are involved in the rescue operations. Bailey Bridge has greatly aided the operations, despite difficulties in reaching the impacted areas. Since more than 1,500 people have been saved so far, efforts are now being directed at finding and helping others who are alone.
- Political Reaction: In Wayanad, CM Pinarayi Vijayan presided over an all-party debate and a high-level meeting. He verified that the majority of those who were stranded had been saved. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, leaders of the Congress, have visited the impacted areas and are calling for national solidarity. Home Minister Amit Shah has been urged by Shashi Tharoor to designate the landslides a “calamity of severe nature” to provide aid more quickly.
- Infrastructure: The Bailey Bridge building taken over by the Indian Army has been essential in enhancing access to outlying locations. Heavy equipment is still being brought in to manage the enormous debris since it is desperately required for rescue efforts.
- Casualties and Damage: The landslides have left Mundakkai, Ground Zero of the tragedy, virtually uninhabitable. Hundreds of homes, a mosque, a post office, and several buildings have been destroyed. The affected areas are dealing with extensive loss of life and property, with many victims still unaccounted for.
- Investigations: The Kerala police have launched an investigation into a fake social media campaign against the CM’s relief appeal. The cybercrime police are probing the posts and have warned of strict legal action against those spreading misinformation.
Community Efforts:
The response from local volunteers has been commendable, working alongside central and state agencies to carry out search, rescue, and relief operations. Despite the challenging terrain and heavy rains, the combined efforts are making a significant impact.
It is still unclear how much damage has been done. There is still a major concern about saving those who are stuck and helping those who are affected by disaster.
