Navy Intensifies Search and Relief Operations in Landslide-Hit Wayanad

The Indian Navy has deployed 78 personnel to Wayanad's Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas in Kerala to conduct rescue and relief operations following devastating landslides. The efforts include setting up medical posts, constructing crucial bridges, and aerial reconnaissance for survivors and bodies, in coordination with local authorities.

The Indian Navy has mobilized 78 personnel to execute rescue and relief efforts in Wayanad's Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas following severe landslides, officials confirmed Saturday.

A medical post was established in Chooralmala to aid the injured. A team comprising three officers and 30 sailors joined forces with the Indian Army to construct a key Bailey Bridge, enabling the movement of heavy machinery and ambulances across the isolated regions.

On Friday, the Indian Navy's Advanced Light Helicopter from INS Garuda conducted an aerial survey of the disaster zones to locate survivors and bodies. The helicopter successfully airlifted 12 state police officers with equipment to areas inaccessible by road, under challenging weather conditions.

Relief operations, which began at 7 am Saturday with the assistance of a dog squad, are being coordinated by North Kerala IGP. The death toll from the July 30 landslides stands at 308, according to Kerala's Health Minister Veena George.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that 215 bodies have been recovered, while 206 people are still missing and 83 are receiving medical treatment in various hospitals.

(With inputs from agencies.)