PM Modi Conducts Aerial Survey of Disaster-Hit Kerala, Assesses Rescue Efforts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted an aerial survey of the disaster-affected regions in Kerala following heavy rainfall and landslides. He assessed rescue operations and visited affected areas to meet victims. The central government has deployed various forces for rescue operations, and an Inter-Ministerial team is set to visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday conducted an aerial survey over disaster-affected areas in Kerala. After the survey via an Indian Air Force helicopter, Modi arrived at Chooralmala, one of the hardest-hit places due to the landslides.

He was briefed about the ongoing evacuation efforts. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Union Minister Suresh Gopi were also present. Modi's aerial survey covered Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Punchirimattom areas, with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Governor Khan accompanying him.

Following the survey, Modi landed at SKMJ Higher Secondary School in Kalpetta and then proceeded to the landslide-hit areas by road to evaluate the rescue operations.

The Prime Minister plans to visit relief camps and hospitals to meet and interact with landslide victims and survivors. After his site visits, he will chair a review meeting for a detailed briefing on the incident and ongoing relief efforts.

In response to the heavy rainfall and landslides on July 30, the Modi government has deployed over 1,200 rescuers from the NDRF, Army, Air Force, Navy, Fire services, and Civil Defence. More than 100 ambulances with medical staff have been deployed for support. The Indian Army built a 190-foot Bailey bridge in Wayanad, facilitating the movement of heavy machinery and ambulances and enhancing the rescue operations.

An Inter-Ministerial Central team (IMCT) will visit the affected areas from August 8 to August 10. Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has requested the central government to declare the situation a national disaster. The state has assured immediate assistance for relocation and support for those affected, according to a press release from the Chief Minister's Office.