Southern Naval Command and Indian Army Lead Rescue Efforts in Wayanad Landslides
The Southern Naval Command has sent a disaster relief team of 68 personnel from INS Zamorin at Ezhimala to Wayanad, Kerala, after massive landslides hit the area, killing more than 150 people. The landslides affected Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas, causing significant damage and loss of life.
Based on a request from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), the team was dispatched on July 30, 2024, and arrived at the site the same day. Additional teams are on standby, and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) has been deployed to support rescue efforts.
The Indian Army’s Southern Command is also involved, preparing to erect a bridge on Meppadi-Chooralmala Road. Bridging assets and a dog squad from Delhi have arrived at Kannur Airport to assist in the operations.
Adverse weather conditions due to continuous rains are posing challenges, but efforts are ongoing to provide immediate relief and support to the affected population. The regional meteorological department has issued heavy rainfall warnings for several districts, including Wayanad.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan held a meeting to review the rescue operations and will visit Wayanad on August 1. Union Minister George Kurian and a delegation of nine state ministers are also assessing the situation on the ground.
Over 1200 rescue workers from various forces, including the Indian Army, Navy, and Coast Guard, are deployed in the affected areas. An Army canine unit is helping to locate bodies buried under the debris. The Kerala government has set up 45 camps in Wayanad, rehabilitating over 3000 people.
Doubts Revealed
Southern Naval Command -: The Southern Naval Command is a part of the Indian Navy that looks after the southern part of India. They help with things like rescue operations during disasters.
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of India’s military. They help protect the country and also assist in rescue missions during emergencies.
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 earth, rocks, and debris slide down a hill or mountain. They can be very dangerous and cause a lot of damage.
INS Zamorin -: INS Zamorin is a naval base in Kerala, India. It is where the Southern Naval Command’s disaster relief team is based.
Kerala -: Kerala is a state in the southern part of India. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and backwaters.
Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state. They make important decisions and help manage the state.
Rehabilitate -: To rehabilitate means to help people get back to normal life after a disaster. This can include giving them a place to stay and food to eat.
