Wayanad Landslide: Death toll Increases to 98 in Kerala; 45 Relief Camps Set Up, State Govt Declares Two-day Mourning

Digital Desk: Over 90 people died and around 128 were injured following severe landslides in the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala's Wayanad district early on Tuesday. Around 150 individuals from Mudakkayi village have been rescued, given medical aid, and moved to safer locations. So far, 37 bodies have been identified.

The Army, along with four National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, has been deployed for rescue operations. A Defence PRO reported that a 43-member team, led by the Second-in-Command from the 122 Infantry Battalion (TA) MADRAS, has been dispatched to assist with the ongoing efforts.

A comprehensive rescue operation, involving 250 personnel from Fire and Rescue, Civil Defence, NDRF, and local teams, is underway. The landslides, which occurred between 2 AM and 4 AM, primarily affected Mundakai and Chooralmala. Rescue operations in Mundakai are challenging due to blocked roads and unstable terrain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound concern and assured that the Central government will provide all necessary support to manage the situation. In response to the landslides and related rain disasters, the Kerala Health Department has established a control room and issued an emergency contact number.