Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi to Visit Tragedy-Stricken Wayanad

Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi will visit Kerala's Wayanad, where landslides claimed 24 lives. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh promises full cooperation. Local and national rescue efforts are ongoing, with a multi-minister delegation overseeing operations.

In the wake of a devastating landslide in Kerala's Wayanad district that has claimed 24 lives, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are slated to visit the affected area. KC Venugopal, Congress general secretary (organization), emphasized the need for unity during this crisis. 'This is the hour of togetherness; we have to work together so that maximum people's lives are safe,' he told ANI.

Venugopal mentioned that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured full cooperation for rehabilitation efforts. 'It is a very unfortunate and saddest day for us. Tragedies are occurring one after another in Wayanad. As soon as we heard the news, Rahul Gandhi reached out to offer support,' he added, detailing Gandhi's communications with the District Collector, Chief Minister, and Defence Minister.

Acting swiftly, Venugopal, along with Congress MP Hibi Eden, submitted an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha, urging the central government to expedite rescue operations and provide extensive aid. Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that rescue missions must be conducted on a 'war-footing' to save stranded residents. 'There is no connectivity, and all efforts are being made to reach those affected,' he said.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh and Kerala minister Veena George described the scale of the devastation. According to them, entire villages are isolated and washed out. The central and state governments have mobilized extensive resources, including the Air Force and NDRF, to assist in rescue operations.

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan confirmed that a control room has been set up to coordinate immediate relief and rescue efforts. Ministers from various departments are being dispatched to oversee the situation on the ground.