Kerala Landslides: A National Disaster
On Wednesday, Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge described the loss of lives in Kerala due to landslides as an ‘unfortunate incident’ and a ‘national disaster’. He assured that the situation in Wayanad is being taken very seriously, with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra set to visit the affected area. Party workers are actively engaged in rehabilitation efforts.
Kharge mentioned that the issue was raised in Rajya Sabha, and Chairman JP Nadda, along with the Central government, has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to provide relief, medical assistance, and compensation, leaving ‘no stone unturned’.
At least two massive landslides struck Wayanad on Tuesday morning, causing widespread destruction. The first occurred in Mundakkai, a town, and the second in Chooralmala. The landslides damaged houses and roads, uprooted trees, and swelled water bodies, hindering rescue operations. Relief and rescue efforts are currently underway.
The Indian Army has ramped up its rescue operations in Kerala’s Wayanad, successfully evacuating more than 1,000 people from affected areas to safety. As of Wednesday morning, the bodies of around 70 victims have been recovered. Kerala is observing two days of mourning till Wednesday, with the national flag flown at half mast at the state assembly.
On Tuesday, Union Minister George Kurian reached Wayanad to take stock of ongoing relief operations, where he interacted with senior officials of the NDRF, CRPF, and Army officials. He also visited a relief camp at Kalpetta. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the victims and Rs 50,000 each for the injured.
Doubts Revealed
Mallikarjun Kharge -: Mallikarjun Kharge is a senior leader of the Congress party in India. He is currently the National President of the Congress party.
Kerala Landslides -: Landslides are when large amounts of earth, rocks, and debris slide down a slope. In Kerala, heavy rains caused these landslides, leading to destruction and loss of life.
National Disaster -: A national disaster is a very serious event that affects a large area and many people. It requires help from the entire country to manage and recover from it.
Rahul Gandhi -: Rahul Gandhi is a prominent leader of the Congress party in India. He is the son of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra -: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is also a leader in the Congress party. She is the daughter of Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi and the sister of Rahul Gandhi.
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful hills and forests.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of India’s military. They help in rescue and relief operations during disasters.
Prime Minister’s Office -: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is the office of the Prime Minister of India. It helps the Prime Minister in his duties and makes important announcements.
Compensation -: Compensation is money given to people who have suffered loss or injury. In this case, it is given to the families of those who died or were injured in the landslides.
Mourning -: Mourning is a period of time when people show respect for those who have died. In Kerala, they are observing two days of mourning to honor the victims of the landslides.
