Final Phase of Rescue Operations Commences in Wayanad Landslide Tragedy

Rescue teams in Wayanad are entering the final phase of operations after devastating landslides. The disaster claimed over 300 lives, with efforts now focusing on inaccessible areas. Despite adverse weather, trained commandos will be airdropped to assist in the difficult search and recovery tasks.

Kerala ADGP (law and order) MR Ajith Kumar announced on Tuesday that rescue and search operations related to landslides in Wayanad, which have resulted in over 300 fatalities, have now entered their final stage. Kumar noted that most accessible land areas have been thoroughly investigated, shifting the focus to the more challenging, inaccessible regions.

On July 30, Wayanad's Chooralmala and Mundakkai were struck by massive landslides, which not only claimed hundreds of lives but also caused extensive property damage. As search operations reach their eighth day, efforts are zeroing in on the remaining slushy areas, where layers of mud are impeding progress. Forest officials are aiding the mission since they possess valuable knowledge of the area.

Today's focus will be on riverside and valley areas, said the ADGP. Due to unfavorable weather conditions, previous search attempts left local volunteers stranded. To avoid this, trained SOG commandos will be airdropped in targeted locations. Specifically, the team aims to search within 6 km of Soochipara Waterfalls, with plans to airlift any bodies found in the process.

According to the State Health Ministry, as of August 2, the death toll stands at 308, with 226 bodies and 181 body parts recovered, while 180 people remain missing. Environment Ministry sources indicated that several projects were allegedly approved in Wayanad over the past four years without thorough topographical studies, contributing to the disaster. Experts attribute the tragedy to a mix of forest cover loss, mining, and climate change.