Kerala's Final Push: Rescue, Recovery, and Rehabilitation in Wayanad

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announces the nearing completion of search and rescue operations in disaster-stricken Wayanad, with 206 still missing. Vijayan outlines the recovery and rehabilitation plans, including new townships and improved disaster warning systems. Contributions to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund are encouraged.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced on Saturday that rescue operations in disaster-struck Wayanad are in their final phases, although 206 individuals are still missing. The efforts to identify recovered bodies from the Chaliyar river have proven challenging, with 215 bodies retrieved so far.

Speaking to the media, Vijayan detailed the current statistics: 87 women, 98 men, and 30 children have been accounted for, and 148 bodies have been released to families. There are 81 individuals receiving treatment in various hospitals, while 67 bodies remain unidentified. Search efforts are continuing with 1,419 personnel from multiple agencies, including the Fire Force, NDRF, and Indian Army.

Vijayan also emphasized rehabilitation measures, including the construction of a new township in a secure area. Significant contributions have been made by volunteers and various organizations, and global responses to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund have been positive. Dedicated communication channels have been set up for donations, though the UPI QR code system has been withdrawn to prevent misuse. Detailed investigations will be conducted to address climate change challenges, with plans to establish an institute for climate change studies in Kottayam.

(With inputs from agencies.)