Wayanad Landslides: Toll Rises To 19, Army Steps Up Rescue Efforts As Hundreds Remain Trapped

Wayanad Landslides: Reports indicate that around 400 families are stranded due to the collapse of a bridge in Chooral Mala town.

 

In the early hours of Tuesday (July 30), a series of major landslides hit the Wayanad region of Kerala, causing widespread destruction. The landslides, which occurred at Meppadi, Mundakkai, and Chooral Mala hills, have left the area in chaos and led to significant loss and damage. The Indian Army has deployed rescue teams for providing immediate relief and aid in the search and rescue operations.

According to ANI, the Army said, "A major landslide struck Meppadi Panchayat, Wayanad in Kerala. Hundreds of people are suspected to have been trapped. The Army received a requisition for providing aid to civil authority this morning."

"In response, the Army has mobilized four columns, including two columns from the 122 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) and two from the DSC Centre, Kannur. The total strength of Army personnel deployed so far for the rescue operation is approximately 225, including medical personnel," it said.

Wayanad Landslides

The first landslide was reported at 1 am in Mundakkai, followed by another devastating slide at Chooral Mala at 4 am while rescue operations were already underway. The impact of the landslides has been severe with a school functioning as a camp.

Reports indicate that around 400 families are stranded due to the collapse of a bridge in Chooral Mala town. Many people have sustained injuries, and several houses have been washed away. The full extent of the disaster remains unknown due to a power shutdown in the entire region.

The Kerala government has established control room to provide immediate relief and rescue assistance following the tragic landslide at Chooralmala, Wayanad. Kerala CM Vijayan visited State Disaster Management Authority office to assess the situation in the wake of the Wayanad landslide.

 

Prominent political leaders have also expressed their concern and solidarity with the affected people. Taking to social media platform X, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated, "I am deeply saddened to see the devastation caused by the massive landslide near Meppadi, Wayanad. My heartfelt condolences and prayers are with all those who have lost loved ones. I hope and pray that everyone is brought to safety as soon as possible. I urge the government to take immediate action to expedite relief and rescue operations and request UDF workers to step forward to do all they can to be of support and comfort to all those affected by this tragedy."