Indian Navy and Army Rescue Operations in Wayanad After Landslides
Wayanad, Kerala, August 3: The Indian Navy and Army are working together to carry out rescue and relief operations in Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas of Wayanad, Kerala, following devastating landslides.
Rescue Efforts
Seventy-eight naval personnel have been deployed to assist in the operations. One team is stationed at the river base to ensure a continuous supply of materials, food, and provisions to the affected people. Other teams are searching for survivors, clearing debris, and recovering bodies. A medical post has been set up at Chooralmala to provide medical assistance to the injured.
Bailey Bridge Construction
A team of three officers and 30 sailors is helping the Indian Army construct a crucial Bailey Bridge over the river, connecting Chooralmala and Mundakkai. This bridge is essential for moving heavy machinery and ambulances.
Aerial Reconnaissance
On August 2, an Advanced Light Helicopter from INS Garuda conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas to locate survivors and bodies. The helicopter also airlifted 12 state police personnel and rescue equipment to the disaster area, which was inaccessible by road.
Coordination and Current Status
The Indian Navy is coordinating closely with the district administration and disaster relief agencies to ensure quick evacuation and provision of basic amenities and medical aid. The relief teams, along with a dog squad, began search operations at 7 am on Saturday. The Indian Army’s relief columns are also present, with all activities coordinated by North Kerala IGP.
Casualties
As of Friday, the death toll from the landslides stands at 308, according to Kerala Health Minister Veena George. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that 215 bodies have been recovered, 206 people are still missing, and 83 are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram districts.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Navy -: The Indian Navy is a part of India’s military that operates in the sea. They help protect the country and also assist in rescue missions during disasters.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of India’s military. They help protect the country and also assist in rescue operations during emergencies.
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful hills and forests.
Landslides -: Landslides happen when a lot of earth, rocks, and debris slide down a hill or mountain. They can be very dangerous and cause a lot of damage.
Chooralmala and Mundakkai -: Chooralmala and Mundakkai are places in Wayanad, Kerala. They were affected by the landslides.
Naval personnel -: Naval personnel are people who work in the Navy. They help in various tasks like rescue operations and providing relief during disasters.
Bailey Bridge -: A Bailey Bridge is a type of portable, temporary bridge. It is used to quickly connect areas that have been cut off, like after a landslide.
Advanced Light Helicopter -: An Advanced Light Helicopter is a type of helicopter used by the military. It can fly over areas to look for people and help in rescue missions.
INS Garuda -: INS Garuda is a naval air station in India. It is where some of the Navy’s helicopters and planes are based.
Aerial reconnaissance -: Aerial reconnaissance means using aircraft to look at and gather information about an area from the sky. It helps in finding people and assessing damage.
Death toll -: The death toll is the number of people who have died in an event, like a disaster. In this case, it is 308 people.