What Is Happening In Wayanad? Reason For The Kerala Landslides

Kerala's Wayanad district has been struck by a series of devastating landslides, resulting in a tragic death toll that has risen to 156 today. Many others have been injured, and hundreds remain trapped under mud and rubble. This year, Kerala is facing one of the worst and most massive landslide events in its history.

Wayanad - Southwest Monsoon:

Wayanad is one of the main attractions of Kerala, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and surrounded by mountains. Tourists from all over the world visit the place.  

However, its stunning landscapes come with a downside, particularly during the Southwest Monsoon season.  This period often brings intense rainfall, leading to landslides and floods that make living conditions unsafe. 

Wayanad Landslides:

The Kerala government had issued warnings over the past three days about expected heavy rainfall. The area received more than 20 cm of rain in just 24 hours, triggering a red alert. The exact number of losses and trapped individuals remains unknown.

As a result, residents were confined to their homes. Tragically, around 2:00 AM on July 30, a massive landslide struck while people were asleep. The disaster unfolded near Meppadi and impacted surrounding areas, including Mundakai Town, Attamala, and Chooralmala.

People Stuck In Wayanad:

Currently, two groups of people are affected in Wayanad, local residents employed in tea estates and tourists staying in hotels, lodges, and resorts.

Impact Of Wayanad Landslides:

Many houses and resorts have been severely damaged by the floods and landslides. Additionally, the bridges connecting various villages have been destroyed, which has significantly delayed rescue operations.

Bodies with severed limbs were discovered kilometers away from the landslide site, in locations such as Iruttukuthi, Pothukal, Panangayam, and Bhoodanam. 

Over the past two days, the Chaliyar River has been overflowing due to intense rainfall. Local residents reported that the floodwaters have not only carried lifeless bodies but also debris from homes, including gas cylinders and kitchen vessels, floating downstream.

Rescue Efforts in Wayanad:

In Wayanad, approximately 500 to 600 personnel from the NDRF, army, state police, forest officials, and volunteers are engaged in rescue operations. They are currently rebuilding a bridge to facilitate the movement of equipment and improve digging.

Rescue efforts were hampered by poor weather on July 30, but teams have been active since July 31 morning. With the rain stopped, efforts are focused on airlifting people once conditions improve. So far, 156 deaths have been reported, with 200 to 250 individuals rescued and receiving aid.

The Indian Army has evacuated over 1,000 people, and additional columns were airlifted to Wayanad. A 170-foot bridge is planned at Chooralmala, and essential supplies are en route. 

An Army Control Centre is operational in Mepaddi, coordinating with the State Administration Control Room. Indian Air Force helicopters are also conducting rescue missions despite challenging weather conditions.

Precautions:

To avoid this kind of situation, people should regularly monitor weather conditions and alerts to stay aware of any potential hazards. 

Government authorities should establish and maintain safe living areas for residents, particularly in regions prone to landslides or severe weather. Proactive measures can significantly reduce vulnerability and enhance community safety.

The rescue teams and volunteers are working tirelessly to save lives and provide assistance. It is important to recognize and appreciate their efforts and support them in their critical work.