A devastating landslide struck near Meppadi in Wayanad district early this morning. The death toll from this disaster has now reached 20. Hospitals in Vaidiri, Kalpatta, Meppadi, and Manandavadi have been placed on standby to provide medical treatment to the victims. Continuous heavy rains in Kerala have caused landslides in various parts of the hilly Wayanad district.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene upon receiving the alert and are working to save people buried under the debris. It is feared that over 100 individuals may be trapped in the landslide. Officials have confirmed that the bodies of 3 people have been recovered so far, and search operations are being conducted intensively. Reports indicate that 250 soldiers and local residents are participating in the rescue efforts.
Two Air Force helicopters from the Coimbatore Sullur Air Force Base have been dispatched to assist with the rescue operations in Wayanad. The helicopters departed for Wayanad at 7:30 am today. Helpline numbers have been announced for those affected by the landslides in Wayanad. Assistance can be sought by contacting 8086010833 or 9656938689.
State Health Minister Veena George stated that all hospitals in the Vaidiri, Kalpatta, Meppadi, and Manandavadi areas are prepared to handle the situation. She added that all necessary facilities are in place to treat the victims, and additional nurses and doctors have been deployed to the affected areas.
