Desperation in Wayanad: Rescuers Battle Time and Terrain

Rescuers in Kerala's Wayanad district strive to find survivors following disastrous landslides that have claimed at least 190 lives and left nearly 200 missing. Overcoming harsh terrain and a lack of heavy machinery, they face formidable challenges. Around 9,328 displaced individuals have been moved to relief camps, and political leaders show solidarity during site visits.

Rescuers in Kerala's Wayanad district are racing against time to locate survivors trapped under collapsed buildings, two days after massive landslides struck the region, pushing the death toll to 190 as of Thursday.

While some reports suggest as many as 276 fatalities, Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan confirmed 190 deaths, including 27 children and 76 women. Additionally, more than 225 people have been injured in the worst-hit areas of Mundakkai and Chooralmala.

The rescue mission faces significant challenges, including treacherous terrain due to destroyed roads and bridges, and a shortage of heavy equipment. Nevertheless, 1,300 personnel from various agencies and the armed forces are conducting coordinated search-and-rescue operations without heavy machinery.