Wayanad, Kerala: In response to the catastrophic landslides that struck Wayanad, Kerala, the Indian Army has significantly intensified its rescue operations, successfully evacuating over 1,000 individuals from the affected regions. As of Wednesday morning, recovery operations have also uncovered the remains of approximately 70 victims.

The Indian Army, in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state rescue teams, is working tirelessly to aid those impacted. Brigadier Arjun Seagan led a reconnaissance mission and oversaw the deployment of additional resources. Military personnel and equipment were airlifted to bolster the ongoing relief efforts, which also saw support from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

Key updates include:

Rescue and Relief Operations: Four teams from the DSC Centre in Kannur and the 122 TA Battalion have joined forces with NDRF and state teams for combined rescue operations. On Tuesday evening, a specialized team from MEG & Centre arrived to assess the Meppadi-Chooralmala Road and evaluate bridge needs in the area.

Enhanced Coordination: Brigadier Arjun Seagan and his team arrived late Tuesday to survey a potential bridge site and establish a Control Centre for coordinating the Indian Army’s Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts.

Airlift and Equipment Deployment: Humanitarian assistance teams, including medical personnel, were airlifted from Trivandrum to Kozhikode using AN32 and C-130 aircraft. Additionally, an Engineering Task Force from the Madras Engineering Group (MEG) and Centre, equipped with a JCB, TATRA, and a 110-foot Bailey Bridge, arrived early Wednesday to support bridge construction and other critical tasks.

Coast Guard Involvement: The ICG Disaster Relief Teams from Kochi and Beypore are actively engaged in the relief efforts, providing essential aid on the ground. The ICG has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations through its social media channels.

Ongoing Plans: The day’s operations include further rescue efforts with all six columns in coordination with the NDRF and civil authorities, starting bridge construction on Meppadi-Chooralmala Road, and utilizing airlifted earth-moving equipment. An aerial assessment by Brigadier Seagan and the ETF Commander is planned to determine additional resource needs.

The landslides have caused extensive damage, with houses destroyed, roads blocked, trees uprooted, and water bodies overflowing. Kerala is observing two days of mourning, with the national flag at half-mast at the state assembly. Union Minister George Kurian visited the region to review the relief operations and interact with officials.

In response to the disaster, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced a compensation package of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured.

More Latest Updates: 

Kerala Health Minister Veena George Injured in Minor Accident Amid Wayanad Landslide Tragedy

Tragic Landslide in Wayanad, 84 Dead: Rescue Operations Underway

#Wayanad Lanslide: PM Modi Announces Compensation; Rahul Gandhi Expresses Grief