Wayanad Landslide: Sarojini’s Survival Story and Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Survivors of the Wayanad landslide in Kerala have been moved to various relief camps. At one such camp, Sarojini, a resident of Chooranmala, shared her terrifying experience. She was alone at home when the landslide struck, trapping her inside. Rescuers broke the door with an axe to save her. Her house was later swept away in a second landslide, leaving her without a home or livelihood. Tragically, her relatives in Mundakkai perished, with some still missing.

The death toll has risen to 158, according to the State Revenue Department. Doctor Hasna, attending to survivors, reported stress-related health issues like headaches and high blood pressure. The medical team is providing initial treatment, with further care planned once survivors recover from the shock.

Brigadier Arjun Seagan, Commandant of the Para Regimental Training Centre, stated that 500 to 600 personnel from the NDRF, army, state police, forest officials, and volunteers are conducting rescue operations. The Indian Army has evacuated over 1,000 people, using man-made bridges and human effort despite adverse conditions. Indian Air Force helicopters have also been involved in the rescue efforts.

The landslides, which struck on July 30, caused widespread destruction in areas like Meppadi, Mundakkai, and Chooralmala, damaging homes, roads, and uprooting trees. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing.