Shashi Tharoor Demands Comprehensive Disaster Response Amid Wayanad Landslide Devastation

As rescue operations continue in Wayanad following devastating landslides, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stresses the need for a robust policy on disaster response and long-term rehabilitation. Tharoor calls for governmental and legislative actions to support victims and leverages Rahul Gandhi’s commitment to build over 100 homes.

As search and rescue operations persist in landslide-hit Wayanad, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday emphasized the urgency of an active policy framework for disaster response and mitigation. He called for sustainable governmental actions to rehabilitate those affected by the natural disaster.

Speaking to ANI, Tharoor highlighted the immediate aid being provided, including food and mattresses, while stressing the need for long-term solutions. 'Relief camps are currently set up in schools, which must reopen for educational purposes. The government needs to arrange longer-term housing solutions like rented homes or hostels,' Tharoor stated.

Tharoor also pointed out that Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has pledged that the Congress party alone will construct over 100 homes. He underscored the importance of public opinion on the central government's proposal to declare 10,000 square kilometers near Kerala's Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive areas, seeking comments from the public over the next 60 days.

Additionally, Tharoor revealed that he has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the declaration of the Wayanad situation as a national calamity to unlock broader support mechanisms. He highlighted the need for MPs across India to contribute financial assistance from their funds to aid the victims of Wayanad.

The death toll in the Wayanad landslides that occurred on July 30 stands at 308 as of Friday, according to Kerala Health Minister Veena George. A total of 215 bodies and 143 body parts have been recovered. Post-mortem procedures have been completed on 212 bodies and 140 body parts, with 148 bodies identified by relatives so far, she said.

(With inputs from agencies.)