- PM Modi will visit Wayanad on August 10 to assess landslide recovery and relief efforts.
- Kerala’s CM seeks national disaster status for the Wayanad landslides.
- Indian Army concludes its rescue mission, with search operations handed to local forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Wayanad on August 10 to inspect the ongoing recovery and relief measures following the devastating landslides in Chooralmala and Mundakkai.
The landslides, which struck on July 30, resulted in widespread destruction and the confirmed deaths of 225 individuals.
PM Modi to Inspect Wayanad Landslide Relief as Kerala Seeks National Disaster Status
In the wake of the tragedy, the Indian Army played a crucial role in the initial rescue operations. After a ten-day mission, the Army is now handing over responsibilities to local forces, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Kerala Police. Meanwhile, ongoing efforts continue to identify and reunite the remains of victims with their families, with 420 post-mortems completed and DNA testing underway for unidentified body parts.
The landslides have claimed the lives of 225 individuals, with search and rescue operations continuing in an effort to locate those still missing. In response to the disaster, a nine-member central government committee has been tasked with assessing the situation and recommending the necessary interventions. The committee’s findings will be critical in determining the level of federal assistance provided to Wayanad.
Meanwhile, the Indian Army, which was instrumental in the initial rescue efforts, is set to conclude its mission in Wayanad. The operation, which spanned ten days, will now be handed over to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local police and fire services. These forces will continue the painstaking work of searching for victims and providing aid to those affected.
In addition to the search operations, the state has faced challenges in managing the influx of donations, particularly clothing sent to the region. While the response has been overwhelming, much of the donated clothing has been used and unsuitable for immediate distribution. This has added another layer of complexity to the already difficult recovery process, highlighting the need for more targeted support.
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit to Wayanad underscores the severity of the landslide disaster and the importance of coordinated recovery efforts. As the state continues to grapple with the aftermath, the involvement of both central and local authorities will be crucial in ensuring the region’s swift recovery and future resilience.
“We expect the Prime Minister to understand the situation firsthand and adopt a favourable stance.” – Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan
