A major rescue operation is currently ongoing in the southern Indian state of Kerala following devastating landslides in the northeastern district of Wayanad. The landslides, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 57 lives and left hundreds more injured.
The affected area in Wayanad, impacting around one thousand people, has been engulfed in mud and fallen trees, making rescue efforts challenging. The army has been deployed to assist in rescuing 250 individuals stranded in a village after a bridge collapse.
Various rescue forces, including national and state disaster response teams, as well as the Kerala fire services, are actively involved in the operation. Despite facing adverse weather conditions and limited access due to debris, over 250 individuals have been successfully rescued so far.
Medical facilities in the region are under strain, with reports of a shortage of ventilators at Dr. Moopen Medical Hospital in Mepaddi. The hospital has received 73 patients, with several in critical condition due to injuries such as fractures, abrasions, and mud inhalation.
Widespread rainfall, with some areas experiencing up to 10 inches, has exacerbated the situation in Kerala. The region typically sees heavy rainfall during the summer months, but the climate crisis has intensified extreme weather events, leading to more frequent and severe disasters.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the affected individuals and announced compensation for the families of the deceased and the injured. The government has pledged financial support to assist those impacted by the landslides in Wayanad.
The rescue operation continues as authorities work tirelessly to locate and aid those in need amidst the challenging conditions caused by the landslides in Kerala.
