Aug 3: As rescue operations enter their fifth day, the death toll from the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, has reached 344, with 206 people still missing. This disaster, triggered by severe floods and landslides, has been described as one of the worst natural calamities in Kerala’s history.
The rescue efforts involve over 1,500 personnel from the Defense forces, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, fire service, and numerous volunteers. The operations are concentrated in the hardest-hit areas of Churalmala, Velarimala, Mundakayil, and Punchirimadom.
Among the dead are 30 children, and rescue teams have also recovered numerous dismembered body parts from the debris. So far, 146 bodies have been identified, while the identities of 74 victims are still unknown. The rescue efforts are complicated by the challenging terrain, destroyed infrastructure, and ongoing heavy rainfall, which raises the risk of additional landslides.
Approximately 9,500 people have been relocated to around 100 relief camps, and 84 individuals are receiving treatment in various hospitals across the district. Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George emphasized the need for psychological support for the affected and measures to control potential outbreaks of contagious diseases in the relief camps.
Adding to the rescue efforts, actor Mohanlal, who holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the 122 Territorial Army, joined the operations with his unit. His presence has been a morale booster for both the rescue teams and the affected families.
The Indian Army has also constructed a Bailey bridge to facilitate the transport of heavy machinery required for the rescue operations. Despite the adverse conditions, the coordinated efforts of the various forces, officials, and local volunteers continue as they search for survivors and recover the bodies of those still missing.
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