Rahul Gandhi Ventures into Wayanad: A Journey through Resilience and Adventure

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently explored Wayanad, experiencing Kerala's longest zipline amid Lok Sabha bye-election campaigns. Highlighting local attractions, he addressed tourism setbacks due to landslides, emphasizing locals' resilience. Gandhi expressed his commitment to promoting Wayanad, a region he deeply admires, alongside his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, took an exploratory journey through Wayanad, experiencing the thrill of Kerala's longest zipline as the Lok Sabha bye-election campaigning concluded in the constituency. Documenting his adventure on his YouTube channel, Gandhi highlighted the region's 'incredible attractions' despite recent landslide challenges.

Engaging with locals, Gandhi inquired about the landslide's impact, which left devastating effects across the area. In a light-hearted moment, he jokingly dared his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, to traverse the zipline in her saree. 'I've met truly inspiring locals who, despite recent challenges, haven't given up. They've created remarkable attractions, the giant swing, drop tower, and zipline, to showcase Wayanad's appeal,' he remarked.

The landslides, provoked by torrential rains from July 30, wreaked havoc in Wayanad, particularly in Punjirimattom, Mundakkai, Chooralmala, and Vellarimala. These events severely impacted tourism, crucial to local livelihoods. 'Tourism is struggling, and livelihoods are at stake. From shopkeepers to homestay owners, everyone is striving to survive,' Gandhi stated. Having vacated the Wayanad seat post his 2024 Lok Sabha victory, Gandhi expressed his emotional connection to the constituency, joined by his sister in making Wayanad a premier destination. 'This is beyond politics for me; Wayanad embodies the best of India.'

(With inputs from agencies.)