Kerala Mourns After Wayanad Landslide Claims 84 Lives
The Kerala government has declared official mourning on Tuesday and Wednesday after a tragic landslide in Wayanad resulted in 84 deaths and 116 injuries. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the statewide mourning.
The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are actively involved in rescue operations. Soldiers are using ropes to cross a swollen river to assist in Ward No. 10 of Chooralmala. Union Minister George Kurian is leading the relief efforts, coordinating with various agencies on the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Kerala Forest Minister Saseendran and other state officials are on the ground to assess the damage and coordinate immediate response measures. Around 200 Indian Army personnel and 30 specialist swimmers from the Indian Navy have been deployed. Two helicopters from Air Force station Sulur are also assisting in the operations.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for eight districts, including Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasargod, due to heavy rainfall. An orange alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts.
Doubts Revealed
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India. It is known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, and rich culture.
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in Kerala, famous for its hills, forests, and wildlife. It is a popular tourist destination.
landslide -: A landslide is when a large amount of earth, rocks, and debris suddenly slide down a slope, often caused by heavy rain or earthquakes.
mourning -: Mourning is a period of sadness and respect for people who have died. During this time, people may hold ceremonies and express their grief.
Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force -: These are the three main branches of India’s military. The Army fights on land, the Navy on water, and the Air Force in the sky.
Union Minister George Kurian -: George Kurian is a government official in India who helps make important decisions and coordinate efforts during emergencies.
India Meteorological Department -: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is a government agency that studies weather and climate. They give warnings about things like heavy rain and storms.
red alert -: A red alert is a warning given by authorities when there is a very high risk of danger, like severe weather, and people need to be very careful.
