Rescue Operations Persist in Landslide Aftermath in Kerala’s Wayanad

Rescue operations in Wayanad, Kerala continue for the ninth day after devastating landslides that led to significant loss of life and property. Collaborative efforts between the Indian Air Force, Army, and state authorities are ongoing. The Kerala government promises world-class rehabilitation and has raised significant disaster relief funds.

Rescue operations by the Indian Air Force, Army, and state authorities continue in landslide-hit Wayanad, Kerala, for the ninth consecutive day. The operations are targeting areas severely affected by massive landslides which began on July 30.

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) for Defence, Kochi, reported that a collaborative operation is underway involving soldiers, Army personnel, and a specialised airlift from Kalpetta to the Chaliyar River. The landslides in Wayanad's Chooralmala and Mundakkai have so far claimed over 300 lives and caused widespread property damage.

Today, a specialised team consisting of six trained Army personnel, four Special Operation Groups (SOGs) of Kerala Police, two Forest Officers, and a dog squad initiated a search operation in the Sunrise Valley of Soojippara waterfalls. Superintendent of Police, SOG Taposh Basumatary, confirmed the inclusion of a cadaver dog and its handler, aiming to cover more ground downstream today following yesterday's 4-kilometer sweep.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured world-class rehabilitation for the affected areas, aiming to set a resettlement model for the nation and beyond. The Chief Minister also highlighted substantial contributions from government employees and teachers to the CM disaster relief fund, which has accumulated Rs 53.98 crores since July 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)