Rahul Gandhi Urges Central Government to Declare Wayanad Landslides a National Disaster

Speaking in Lok Sabha, Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi called for national disaster status for Wayanad landslides, a comprehensive rehabilitation package, and enhanced compensation. The ongoing rescue efforts involve multiple agencies, while Kerala's CM promises world-class rehabilitation. Over 200 are dead, but numbers may climb.

Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi urged the central government to declare Wayanad landslides a 'national disaster' during his speech in Lok Sabha on Wednesday. He called for a comprehensive rehabilitation package and enhanced compensation for affected individuals. 'I visited Wayanad with my sister and witnessed the devastation. More than 200 people are dead, and the final casualty count might exceed 400,' said Gandhi.

Gandhi praised the efforts of various departments involved in search and rescue operations. 'It is heartening to see all communities coming together to assist,' he remarked.

He reiterated the need for comprehensive support from the Union Government while applauding the efforts of the NDRF, SDRF, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and other agencies including neighboring states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.

The Indian Air Force, Army, and state authorities have been conducting rescue operations in Wayanad. 'Collaborative rescue operations are ongoing,' reported PRO Defence Kochi on X. The massive landslides that occurred on July 30 have resulted in significant casualties and property damage.

A special team comprising Army personnel, SOGs of Kerala Police, Forest Officers, and a dog squad conducted a search operation at Sunrise Valley. 'Our goal is to cover more areas downstream,' said Taposh Basumatary, SOG Superintendent of Police.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced plans for world-class rehabilitation in the affected areas, aiming for a model of resettlement that could serve as an example globally. 'Government employees and teachers have pledged to contribute 5% of their salary to the CM disaster relief fund, which has collected Rs 53.98 crores from July 30,' he added.