Karnataka Rallies to Assist Kerala in Wake of Wayanad Landslides

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has mobilized state resources to aid Kerala's Wayanad district following devastating landslides. The CM is coordinating with Kerala authorities and has deployed resources, including NDRF teams and Army personnel. Relief operations are underway, including medical aid and unrestricted transport routes to facilitate swift assistance.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed on Tuesday that the state government is extending extensive support for rescue and relief operations in Kerala's Wayanad, struck by severe landslides.

The CM has assigned two senior IAS officers to coordinate these efforts with Kerala's state authorities as part of an ongoing commitment to aid the neighboring state.

The landslides in Wayanad have resulted in 93 fatalities and 128 injuries to date. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team in Bengaluru and Madras Engineer Group (MEG) units from the Army have been dispatched to assist in rescue missions.

One MEG officer, accompanied by two Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and 70 personnel, has already been deployed with rescue supplies. An additional team of two officers, four JCOs, and 100 personnel are set to leave soon with necessary equipment.

To expedite these efforts, unrestricted passage has been granted through the Green Corridor at the Bandipur Check Post. Karnataka is keeping in constant communication with Kerala's disaster management authorities, mobilizing additional resources from border districts like Mysuru and Chamarajanagar.

Medical aid stations and transport buses are stationed in H D Kote, and a helpline for Wayanad travelers has been set up in Chamarajanagar. CM Siddaramaiah expressed solemn empathy for the victims while pledging Karnataka's unwavering support.

Senior IAS officers P C Jaffer and Dilish Sasi have been deputed for coordination, and preliminary reports indicate that Kannadigas stranded in Wayanad are being prioritized for rescue. Helpline numbers issued by the Chamarajanagar DC office include 08226-223163, 08226-223161, 08226-223160, and WhatsApp: 97409 42901.