Their visit came in the wake of devastating landslides that have claimed 167 lives and left the area in a state of severe distress...
Digital Desk: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi along with party leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, visited the landslide-affected regions of Wayanad in Kerala on Thursday. Their visit came in the wake of devastating landslides that have claimed 167 lives and left the area in a state of severe distress.
The Congress leaders began their visit at one of the major landslide sites in Choorlamala. They also met with injured individuals at the VIMS Hospital in Wayanad, where ongoing medical treatment is being provided. In addition to their hospital visit, Gandhi and Vadra visited a relief camp at St. Joseph UP School, where they spoke with survivors and offered their condolences. They expressed deep sorrow for the tragedy and assured victims of their commitment to supporting rehabilitation efforts.
Rahul Gandhi, in a message shared via his WhatsApp channel, conveyed his profound grief over the disaster. He stated, "Witnessing these scenes of tragedy deeply pains my heart. In these difficult times, Priyanka and I stand with the people of Wayanad. We are closely monitoring the relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring that all necessary assistance is provided. The UDF is committed to extending all possible support." Gandhi also emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive action plan to address the recurring issues of landslides and natural calamities.
Meanwhile, search and rescue operations are ongoing in Wayanad, although progress has been hampered by adverse weather conditions. Major General VT Mathew, General Officer Commanding of the Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area reported that the primary focus is now on retrieving bodies. He noted that rescue efforts are challenging due to the rains and the hazardous conditions, with operations being paused in the evening for safety reasons. Three Army dogs and five rescue teams have been deployed to assist with the efforts.
Originally scheduled for July 31, the visit by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was postponed due to severe weather that made travel to Wayanad impossible. They ultimately arrived at Kannur airport at 9:30 am on Thursday and traveled by road to Wayanad to assess the situation and offer their support in person.
The torrential rains that triggered the landslides early Tuesday morning affected several areas, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Noolpuzha, resulting in significant loss of life and extensive damage.
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