Landslide Chaos in Northern Kerala: Search and Rescue Amidst Destruction

Rescue operations in Kerala's landslide-hit areas have unearthed more bodies, bringing the death toll to 215 while 206 remain missing. The Kerala government has requested advanced radar equipment to aid in search efforts. The state is focused on rehabilitation and ensuring continued education for affected children. Controversy surrounds donations to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund.

As rescue operations in the landslide-hit areas of northern Kerala entered their fifth day, teams uncovered more bodies and body parts, raising the death toll to 215, with around 206 people still reported missing.

Huge boulders and logs, transported by the landslides into residential areas like Mundakkai and Chooralmala, are significantly challenging the rescue efforts.

Advanced radar equipment, including one Xaver radar and four Reeco radars, will be airlifted from Delhi to assist in locating people trapped under the debris, a Defence PRO announced. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the search and rescue operations are in their final stages.

Addressing the media, Vijayan highlighted difficulties in identifying recovered bodies, noting that 215 bodies have been recovered, with 81 people injured and under treatment. He emphasized ongoing rehabilitation efforts, including plans to build a secure township and ensure children's education continues.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal visited the affected areas in his capacity as an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army to oversee the operations and pledged Rs three crore for rehabilitation. Controversy has emerged over donations to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, sparking internal disagreements within the Congress party.

Despite smear campaigns against the fund, many individuals have contributed their earnings. Police have registered 39 FIRs linked to these campaigns and are taking action to remove online content discouraging donations.

(With inputs from agencies.)