Wayanad Landslide Tragedy: 63 Dead, Hundreds Trapped as Heavy Rains Hinder Rescue Efforts; PM Modi and Rahul Gandhi Respond

A devastating landslide struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Wayanad district, Kerala, on Tuesday morning, causing widespread destruction. The tragedy has claimed 63 lives, with many others injured and hundreds still trapped under debris. The Indian Army is conducting a rapid rescue operation, but heavy rain and obstructed paths are hindering efforts.

The landslide has severely damaged infrastructure, including the collapse of a critical bridge. Several trains, including the Ernakulam-Kannur Intercity Express, have been cancelled due to severe flooding on the tracks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured all possible support and announced ₹2 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is expected to visit Wayanad soon.

Villages like Mundakkai and Chooralmala are severely affected. State and central agencies, including the NDRF and Civil Defense teams, are actively involved in rescue operations, working tirelessly to save lives and restore normalcy.

Massive Landslide in Wayanad: The hilly regions near Meppadi in Wayanad district experienced a catastrophic landslide on Tuesday morning, leading to massive devastation.

Casualties and Injuries: The landslide has claimed 63 lives, with many others injured. Rescue operations are in full swing to locate and save those trapped under the debris.

Rescue Operations Underway: The Indian Army has taken charge of the rescue efforts. Despite heavy rain hindering operations, a rapid rescue mission is ongoing to evacuate the stranded individuals.

Infrastructure Collapse: The disaster has severely damaged the region's infrastructure, including the collapse of a critical bridge, complicating the rescue operations further.

Train Services Disrupted: Several trains, such as the Ernakulam-Kannur Intercity Express and Thiruvananthapuram-Shoranur Venad Express, have been cancelled due to severe flooding on the tracks.

Government's Response: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, assuring all possible support. He announced a compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

Political Reactions: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and discussed the rescue operations with the Kerala CM. He is expected to visit Wayanad soon.

Challenges in Rescue Operations: Heavy rains, large boulders, and uprooted trees are obstructing rescue teams. Two Air Force helicopters have been deployed, but landing difficulties persist due to adverse weather conditions.

Extent of Damage: Villages like Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha are severely affected. Vehicles have been swept away by floodwaters, and rivers have changed their course, further damaging residential areas.

Ongoing Efforts: State and central government agencies, including the NDRF and Civil Defense teams, are actively involved in rescue operations. Medical teams are also on-site to assist the injured.