Rescue Efforts Continue in Wayanad, Kerala After Devastating Landslides
The rescue and relief operations in the landslide-hit areas of Wayanad, Kerala, have entered their seventh consecutive day. According to the State Health Ministry, the death toll stands at 308 as of August 2. So far, 220 bodies have been recovered, and 180 people are still missing.
Relief Camps and Evacuations
A total of 53 camps have been set up in Wayanad to aid the affected people. These camps have provided shelter to 6759 people, including 1983 families, 2501 males, 2677 females, 1581 children, and 20 pregnant women. In Meppadi and other gram panchayats, 16 camps have been established, including 9 shelters and 7 rescue camps, housing 2514 people.
Specific Rescue Camps
Rescue camps have been set up at various schools and colleges, including SDMLP school, D-Paul public school at Kalpetta, RCLP school at Chundel, GHS school near Rippon, WMO college at Muttil, Rippon new building, and Arappatta.
Impact of Landslides
The massive landslides that hit Chooralmala and Mundakkai on July 30 caused significant devastation and loss of lives and property. Late on Sunday night, the district administration conducted a mass burial for the unidentified victims.
Government Actions
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed the district administration to carry out the burial formalities with interfaith prayers. The Chief Minister’s Office also announced night patrolling by the police in the affected areas and warned against trespassing without police permission.
Support from Indian Air Force
Upon the Kerala Government’s request, the Indian Air Force airlifted one ZAWER and four REECO radars from Siachen and Delhi on August 3 to assist in the search operations.
Doubts Revealed
Wayanad -: Wayanad is a district in the state of Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful hills and forests.
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India. It is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and rich culture.
Landslides -: Landslides happen when a lot of earth, rocks, and debris slide down a slope. They can be very dangerous and cause a lot of damage.
Death toll -: The death toll is the number of people who have died in an event, like a disaster or accident.
Relief camps -: Relief camps are places where people who have lost their homes can stay temporarily. They get food, water, and shelter there.
Indian Air Force -: The Indian Air Force is a part of India’s military. They use airplanes and helicopters to help in emergencies and protect the country.
Radars -: Radars are devices that use radio waves to detect objects. They can help find people or things that are hard to see.
Night patrolling -: Night patrolling means that people, like police or volunteers, keep watch during the night to make sure everyone is safe.
Trespassing -: Trespassing means going into an area where you are not allowed to be. It can be dangerous, especially in places affected by disasters.
