Forest officers in Wayanad undertake daring attempt to save Tribal family along with toddlers

Digital Desk: In a remarkable display of bravery and resilience, forest officers in Wayanad undertook a risky rescue mission to save four toddlers and their parents from a tribal community stranded due to a landslide. Their daring operation amid heavy rains and treacherous terrain has earned accolades from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and widespread praise on social media.

A four-member team, led by Kalpetta Range Forest Officer K. Hashis, embarked on a dangerous trek deep into the forest to rescue the tribal family. The mission involved navigating through rocky terrain and enduring heavy downpours, making the four-hour journey extremely challenging. The family, part of the Paniya community, had been stranded in a cave atop a hill with no food.

Recounting the operation, Hashis explained that the rescue team initially found the mother and her four-year-old child wandering near the forest region on Thursday. Upon learning about her three other children and their father trapped in a cave, the team swiftly mobilized to reach them. The family's predicament was dire, exacerbated by the landslide and heavy rains that had cut off their access to food.

The rescue mission was fraught with hazards, as the officers had to traverse slippery, steep rocks and tie ropes to trees and rocks for safety. Despite the formidable obstacles, the team managed to reach the family and provide immediate relief. "The children were tired, and we fed them with whatever we had carried. Later, after much persuasion, their father agreed to come with us, and we tied the children to our bodies and started our trek back," Hashis said.

The visuals of one officer holding a child close went viral on social media, symbolizing the heroic efforts of the rescue team. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lauded the forest officers’ bravery in a heartfelt message. "Six precious lives were saved from a remote tribal settlement after a tireless 8-hour operation by our courageous forest officials in landslide-hit Wayanad. Their heroism reminds us that Kerala's resilience shines brightest in the darkest times. United in hope, we will rebuild and emerge stronger," Vijayan posted on 'X' on Friday.

The rescue team, which included section forest officer B. S. Jayachandran, beat forest officer K. Anil Kumar, and Rapid Response Team (RRT) member Anoop Thomas, undertook a seven-kilometer-long journey to bring the family to safety. The mission underscored the forest department’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities, particularly during natural calamities.

After the arduous trek back, the family was taken to the Attamala anti-poaching office, where they were provided with food, clothing, and footwear. Hashis confirmed that the children are now safe and being cared for. The forest department has since shifted most members of the tribal communities in Wayanad to secure locations as the rain continues to intensify.

The rescue operation in Wayanad serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and dedication of Kerala's forest officers. Their heroism and quick response during a time of crisis have not only saved lives but also inspired hope and resilience in the face of adversity.