Kerala Landslides: 190 Dead, Rescue Efforts Continue in Wayanad
Two days after massive landslides struck Wayanad district in Kerala, the death toll has climbed to 190. Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan confirmed the fatalities, stating, “The official death announced by the government so far in the Wayanad landslide is 190. Rest we have bodies that need DNA testing.”
Rescue and Rehabilitation Efforts
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting with political leaders, state ministers, and officials. He emphasized that the main priority is rescuing missing persons and initiating rehabilitation efforts. CM Vijayan appreciated the Army’s efforts, noting that most trapped individuals have been rescued. The construction of a Bailey Bridge has eased rescue operations.
Weather Alerts and Rescue Operations
The India Meteorological Department of Kerala issued an orange alert in Wayanad until Saturday, predicting rain with some clear spells. IMD Kerala director Neetha K Gopal mentioned a reduction in rainfall activity from tomorrow. Piyush Anand, Director General of the National Disaster Response Force, stated that four teams are currently in Wayanad, with a total of 12 teams in Kerala.
Support and Visits
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited the landslide site, expressing their condolences and support. Rahul Gandhi called it a terrible tragedy and emphasized the need for relocation and aid for survivors. Donations are pouring into the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund, and internationally renowned sand artist Sudarsan Patnaik created a tribute sand sculpture at Puri beach in Odisha.
Background
Two massive landslides struck Mundakkai and Churalmala in Wayanad on July 30, causing extensive destruction and loss of lives. The Indian Army has completed the construction of the Cl 24 Bailey Bridge, connecting Chooralmala with Mundakkai over the Iruvanipzha River, aiding rescue efforts.
Doubts Revealed
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India, known for its beautiful backwaters and lush green landscapes.
Landslides -: Landslides happen when a lot of earth, rocks, and debris slide down a slope, often caused by heavy rain or earthquakes.
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in Kerala, famous for its hills, forests, and wildlife.
Kerala Revenue Minister -: The Kerala Revenue Minister is a government official responsible for managing the state’s revenue and resources. K Rajan is the current minister.
Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the head of the government in a state in India. Pinarayi Vijayan is the Chief Minister of Kerala.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of India’s military forces, responsible for defending the country and helping in emergencies.
Bailey Bridge -: A Bailey Bridge is a temporary, portable bridge used by the military to quickly create a crossing over rivers or gaps.
Orange alert -: An orange alert is a warning issued by the weather department indicating that severe weather conditions, like heavy rain, are expected.
Congress leaders -: Congress leaders are members of the Indian National Congress, a major political party in India. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are prominent leaders of this party.
Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund -: The Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund is a special fund where people can donate money to help those affected by disasters like floods or landslides.
