Kerala CM Urges Unity in Rebuilding After Deadly Wayanad Landslides

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called for collective efforts to rebuild Wayanad after devastating landslides left 93 dead, 128 injured, and hundreds missing. He urged contributions to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund, citing the massive destruction of homes and livelihoods in affected areas.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday issued an appeal for collective action to rebuild Wayanad after devastating landslides claimed 93 lives and injured 128 others. He urged the public to contribute to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund to aid in reconstruction efforts.

At a press conference, Vijayan recounted the tragic events, mentioning that villagers in areas like Mundakai, Chooralmala, and Attamala were caught off-guard by early morning landslides, resulting in significant loss of life and multiple people still missing. He said rescue operations were ongoing with fire force, police, NDRF, and military units collaborating in the mission.

As the initial rescue phase continues, 45 camps have been established to rehabilitate over 3,069 people. Vijayan shared that additional medical facilities and temporary hospitals are being set up, including genetic tests for identifying bodies. He called for the kind of unified response seen during the 2018 floods to help Wayanad recover.

(With inputs from agencies.)