Braving Rains and Adverse Terrain, Rescue Teams Intensify Search Operations in Landslide-hit Wayanad

Amid heavy rains and challenging terrain, 40 rescue teams have intensified search and rescue operations in the landslide-affected Wayanad district. Efforts include the construction of a 190-foot Bailey bridge, multi-zone searches, and additional canine and drone support to locate and recover bodies in the affected areas.

In the face of torrential rains and rough terrain, 40 rescue teams have expanded their search operations in Wayanad's landslide-impacted areas on the fourth day, officials reported on Friday.

Newly constructed, the 190-foot-long Bailey bridge is expected to significantly aid emergency responders, facilitating the transport of heavy machinery, including excavators, and ambulances to Mundakkai and Chooralmala hamlets, the worst-affected zones, officials noted.

Rescue efforts will be systematically conducted across six demarcated zones by joint teams comprising personnel from the army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), District Special Guard (DSG), Coast Guard, Navy, and the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment (MEG), bolstered by local volunteers and forest department employees.

In a strategic three-pronged approach, authorities will also focus on the Chaliyar River, working alongside local swimming experts and deploying police helicopters for aerial searches. The ongoing efforts involve the cooperation of police along the 40-km stretch of the river, with additional support from the Coast Guard, Navy, and Forest Department for riverbank searches.

State Revenue Minister K Rajan announced the impending arrival of a drone-based radar from Delhi and additional canine units to enhance the search operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)