Massive Landslides in Wayanad: Rescue Efforts, Political Reactions, and Financial Aid
On Tuesday morning, two massive landslides struck Wayanad, Kerala, causing extensive destruction. The first landslide occurred in Mundakkai, and the second in Chooralmala. The landslides damaged houses, roads, and uprooted trees, making rescue operations difficult.
Rescue Operations
The landslides resulted in 167 confirmed deaths, with 96 victims identified, including 77 men, 67 women, and 22 children. Rescue personnel have brought 219 individuals to hospitals, with 78 still receiving treatment. The Indian Army has intensified its rescue efforts, setting up a Command and Control Centre in Kozhikode and rescuing around 1000 people.
Political Reactions
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a meeting to take stock of the rescue efforts and will visit Wayanad on August 1. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the Kerala government could have minimized the losses if they had responded to warnings. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are scheduled to visit the affected areas on August 1.
Financial Aid
Financial support has been received from various sources. Tamil Nadu Congress is providing Rs 1 crore, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Rs 5 lakh compensation for each deceased Kannadiga, and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani pledged Rs 5 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
Doubts Revealed
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 rocks and soil slide down a hill or mountain. They can cause a lot of damage to houses and roads.
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India. It is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and green landscapes.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the part of India’s military that fights on land. They help in rescue operations during disasters.
CM Pinarayi Vijayan -: Pinarayi Vijayan is the Chief Minister (CM) of Kerala. A Chief Minister is like the head of a state government.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah -: Amit Shah is the Union Home Minister of India. He is responsible for internal security and law and order in the country.
Financial aid -: Financial aid means money given to help people in need. In this case, it is being given to help those affected by the landslides.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi -: Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are leaders of the Congress party, a major political party in India. They are visiting the affected areas to show support and help.
