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A devastating landslide near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district has claimed at least 89 lives, with hundreds more feared trapped. Rescue efforts are in full swing as emergency teams strive to locate and assist survivors.
Health Minister Veena George reported that over 70 people have been injured and that a bridge in the area has been washed away. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has deployed Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, with additional NDRF units on the way. Two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps have also been mobilized to support the rescue operations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, assuring full support from the Centre. He announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured. “We are trying every possible thing to rescue our people. We have received 24 bodies in different hospitals. Around 70 people are also injured. We have ensured proper treatment of the injured,” said Health Minister Veena George.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that all government agencies are actively participating in the rescue operations. A total of 225 Army personnel have been deployed, and two Air Force helicopters, including an Mi-17 and an ALH, are scheduled to support the rescue operations from Sulur at 7:30 a.m.
Rahul Gandhi Addresses Parliament on Wayanad Landslide Tragedy
“The Devastation Unfolding in Wayanad is Heartbreaking”
Speaking in Parliament, Rahul Gandhi has called on the Union government to provide all possible support for the Wayanad landslide disaster, including increased and immediate compensation for bereaved families.
Growing Concern Over Landslides
Gandhi emphasized the alarming rise in landslides across the country in recent years. He stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive action plan to address the increasing frequency of natural calamities, particularly in ecologically fragile regions.
[Watch the video of Rahul Gandhi’s address in Parliament today]
