Image Credits - Mathrubhumi English
In a grave update on the Wayanad landslide, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reported that the death toll has risen to 93, with 128 individuals injured in the disaster. The landslide, triggered by intense monsoon rains, has wrought extensive damage across the region, overwhelming local communities and rescue teams. After massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district this morning, the recovery operation continues as rescue teams navigate the challenging conditions in the region.
The Chief Minister confirmed that 16 bodies and various dismembered body parts were recovered from the Chaliyar River at Pothukal earlier today. These grim findings add to the already substantial toll of the disaster, which has seen numerous homes buried under tonnes of debris. Rescue operations are ongoing, though they are severely constrained by continued heavy rains and treacherous terrain.
In a press briefing, Vijayan extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and praised the efforts of emergency responders. “This is a devastating tragedy for Wayanad and our entire state. We are doing everything possible to assist those affected and support the ongoing rescue operations,” he stated.
Emergency services, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with local volunteers, are tirelessly working to find additional victims and provide medical care to the injured. Temporary shelters have been established for those displaced, and relief efforts are being coordinated to address immediate needs.
The Wayanad landslide has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of increasing extreme weather events. Authorities are calling for a comprehensive review of emergency response strategies to better protect communities from future natural disasters.