Tragic landslides in Wayanad: 23 dead, including three children, hundreds missing

Twenty three people, including three children, lost their lives in devastating landslides that struck Kerala’s hilly Wayanad district on Tuesday. The landslides have severely impacted and isolated the villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. In a video message, UDF MLA T Siddique mentioned that plans are being made to airlift people from the Mundakkai area due to the severe disconnection caused by the landslides. “Currently, we have no complete information about those missing and dead. Many areas have been cut off. NDRF personnel are trying to reach those places,” he stated.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced on Facebook that two Air Force helicopters are en route to Wayanad from Sulur to assist in the search and rescue operations. Several families have already been moved to camps or the homes of relatives. The Chief Minister assured that rescue operations will be coordinated with the involvement of state ministers who will lead activities on the ground.

In response to the landslides and other rain-related disasters, the Health Department’s National Health Mission has opened a control room. Those in need of emergency assistance can contact the authorities at 9656938689 or 8086010833.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) reported that Fire force and NDRF teams have been deployed to the affected areas, with an additional NDRF team on its way to Wayanad. Two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps have also been dispatched to assist in the rescue efforts.

Despite the ongoing heavy rainfall hindering rescue operations, efforts continue to locate and assist those feared to be trapped.