Kerala Landslides: Search and Rescue Operations Continue Amid Rising Death Toll

Over 100 bodies have been recovered following massive landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. More than 500 Army personnel are engaged in rescue operations. Local and national leaders, along with the Army and Air Force, are providing support, while discussions are ongoing about financial aid and infrastructure recovery.

Over 100 bodies were recovered on Thursday in the aftermath of two devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, reported Major General VT Mathew, General Officer Commanding, Karnataka and Kerala Sub Area. With over 500 Army personnel engaged in rescue operations, efforts to find and assist survivors are intensifying.

The landslides struck Mundakkai and Churalmala on July 30, causing widespread destruction and claiming 167 lives, according to the Kerala Revenue Department. Major General Mathew emphasized the Army's ongoing support to the Kerala government, noting the construction of a vital bridge would be completed by 10 am on Thursday to facilitate further rescue efforts using heavy equipment.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced the handover of 154 bodies to district administrators and criticized Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statement suggesting the Kerala government could have minimized losses. Shah asserted early warnings had been issued, and the central government remains committed to supporting the relief efforts, irrespective of party politics.

As rescue operations continue, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, accompanied by officials, is visiting Wayanad to assess the situation. Union Minister George Kurien highlighted the central government's involvement and financial aid for victims, emphasizing the deployment of Army and Air Force units.

The Madras Engineers Group is nearing completion of the pivotal bridge at Choorlamalai, a crucial step to improve rescue logistics. Despite challenging conditions, rescue operations persist with intensified efforts to reach and aid affected communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)