Kerala Landslides: Search and Rescue Operations Continue in Wayanad
The search and rescue operations in Wayanad, Kerala, have entered the fifth consecutive day as several people are still feared trapped in the debris. The death toll from the massive landslides that occurred on July 30 in Chooralmala and Mundakkai of Wayanad stands at 308 as of Friday, according to Kerala Health Minister Veena George.
Relief teams, including the Indian Army and dog squads, began search operations at 7 am today. The operations are coordinated by North Kerala IGP. Lieutenant Colonel Vikas Rana stated that the search operations in the six earmarked zones will continue today, with locals supporting the efforts.
The Army is constructing a bridge in the Punchirimattom region to facilitate the search and rescue operation. Air Marshal B Manikantan and Brigadier Salil conducted an aerial survey of the affected regions to assess the situation.
Upon the Kerala government’s request, advanced radar equipment is being airlifted from Delhi to aid in the operations. Kerala Minister PA Mohammed Riyas reported that 210 bodies and 134 body parts have been recovered so far, with 146 bodies identified by relatives. Post-mortem procedures of 207 bodies and 137 body parts have been completed. Additionally, 84 people are undergoing treatment in various hospitals, while 187 have been discharged.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised the rescue teams for their heroic efforts, noting that six lives were saved from a remote tribal settlement after an 8-hour operation by forest officials.
Doubts Revealed
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India. It is known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, and hills.
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.
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in Kerala, known for its hills, forests, and wildlife. It is a popular tourist destination.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of the Indian Armed Forces. They help protect the country and also assist in rescue operations during disasters.
Dog squads -: Dog squads are teams of trained dogs and their handlers. These dogs can find people who are trapped under debris or missing.
Air Marshal -: An Air Marshal is a high-ranking officer in the Indian Air Force. They help plan and oversee air operations.
Brigadier -: A Brigadier is a senior rank in the Indian Army. They are responsible for commanding large groups of soldiers.
Aerial survey -: An aerial survey is when people use aircraft to look at and take pictures of an area from the sky. This helps them understand the situation better.
Radar equipment -: Radar equipment uses radio waves to detect objects and their positions. It can help find people or things that are hidden or far away.
Kerala Minister PA Mohammed Riyas -: PA Mohammed Riyas is a government official in Kerala. He helps make decisions and manage the state, especially during emergencies.
