Rescue Operations Are Underway in Wayanad, Hundreds of People Still Trapped under Debri
Hundreds remain trapped after landslides in Wayanad, with the death toll at 158. Rescue operations, involving the Indian Army and NDRF, are ongoing. Roads are washed away, complicating efforts. PM Modi announced compensation for victims' families. More rain is expected.
Hundreds of people are still feared trapped and are untraceable due to the multiple landslides in Wayanad, according to family members. The death toll has risen to 158.
Rescue operations are in full swing in the affected areas. Several houses have been destroyed, trees have been uprooted and bridges have collapsed. Mud has entered several buildings. Hilly areas in Meppadi have been worst affected.
Ropeways are being used to rescue people who are stranded in flooded areas. Roads to and from Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala and NoolPuzha have been washed away, hampering rescue efforts.
The Indian army has deployed 300 personnel for search and rescue operations. 140 rescue operation members are on standby in Thiruvananthapuram, and they would step into action, if need arises. 3,000 people have been rescued in the operations.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is working in tandem with the Army and the Navy to rescue people.
The incessant rain in the region has further complicated relief efforts. The weather department has predicted more rain for Wayanad and several other districts for the next couple of days.
Rain alert has been issued for the following districts: Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Rs. 2 lakh compensation for families of those killed in the calamity and Rs. 50,000 for those who are injured.
Rescued members have been shifted to 45 relief camps that have been set up in Wayanad.
Rescue operations in affected areas are underway.