Indian Armed Forces Launch Extensive Rescue Operations in Wayanad Landslide Crisis

Indian Armed Forces, including the Air Force, Army, and Navy, coordinated extensive rescue operations in landslide-hit Wayanad, Kerala. With helicopters, soldiers, and specialist teams, the personnel aimed to evacuate stranded individuals and provide medical and logistical support. Numerous casualties and injuries have been reported due to the disaster.

The Indian Air Force deployed two helicopters—a Mi-17 and an ALH Dhruv—for rescue and relief operations in Wayanad in coordination with the state government and National Disaster Relief Force, IAF officials confirmed on Tuesday. The helicopters were dispatched from Sulur air base in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

The Army mobilized 200 soldiers from the Defence Security Corps while a unit of Navy personnel from the Ezhimala Naval Base in Kannur joined rescue efforts in Wayanad's landslide-affected regions. Additional support came from two teams of 200 Indian Army personnel from Kannur Army Cantonment. The 122 TA Battalion arrived in Wayanad post-noon and commenced rescue operations.

A team of 30 specialized swimmers from the Indian Navy also contributed, according to Defence PRO. Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh instructed the Army Chief to mobilize forces for assistance. Kerala had requested the Army's Dog Squad from Meerut Remount Veterinary Corps Centre for search operations. A Forest Department drone was also aiding the mission, stated the Kerala Chief Minister's office.

Responding to Kerala Government's requisition, the Indian Army dispatched two relief columns from the Defence Security Corps Centre in Kannur aimed at rescuing around 250 individuals stranded due to a significant landslide in Vyithiri Taluk, Wayanad, stated Southern Command of the Indian Army. Medical detachments from Military Hospital Kannur and infantry troops from the Territorial Army equipped with advanced rescue gear were part of the operation. NDRF teams were also actively involved in the rescue missions.

State Revenue Minister K Rajan's office reported 63 fatalities and 116 injuries due to the early morning landslides across Meppadi, Mundakkai Town, and Chooralmala areas, causing massive destruction. Numerous buildings, including shops and homes, were buried, and vehicles swept away by landslides triggered by torrential rain.

State Health Minister Veena George's office announced the establishment of temporary hospital facilities at a mosque and madrasa in Chooralmala, Wayanad, to support ongoing relief efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)