Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday undertook an aerial survey of Kerala's Wayanad district to assess the extensive damage caused by the recent landslides that claimed hundreds of lives. Accompanied by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Union Minister Suresh Gopi, PM Modi visited some of the worst-affected areas, including Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Punchimattom villages.
The Prime Minister's survey included a flyover of the Iruvazhinji Pucha River, the origin point of the devastating landslides. The aerial assessment, conducted via an Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter, allowed the Prime Minister to observe the scale of destruction and the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy.
Following the aerial survey, PM Modi conducted an on-ground inspection of the disaster-hit areas, where he was briefed on the evacuation and relief operations by various disaster management teams.
PM visited hospitals and relief camps to meet with survivors and victims' families, offering them support and listening to their experiences and grievances.
Later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a review meeting with officials regarding the landslide-affected area.
The Kerala government, anticipating the Prime Minister's visit, had requested Rs. 2,000 crore in financial assistance from the Central government to aid in the rehabilitation and relief efforts. The funds are urgently needed to address the extensive damage and to support those who have been displaced by the disaster.
During his visit, PM Modi emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts between state and central agencies in responding to the crisis.
As relief operations continue in Wayanad, the focus remains on rescuing those still missing, providing medical care to the injured, and rebuilding the affected communities.