Wayanad, Kerala – In the early hours of Tuesday, July 30, 2024, the serene hills of Wayanad district were transformed into a scene of devastation as massive landslides
triggered by relentless heavy rains, claimed the lives of at least 123 people and left nearly 200 injured
The disaster struck while most residents were asleep, catching them off guard and causing widespread destruction.
The Impact
The landslides have been described as the worst disaster to hit Kerala since the catastrophic floods of 2018.
Entire areas have been wiped out, with homes and infrastructure buried under tons of mud and debris.
The hardest-hit areas include Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome, where rescue operations are ongoing but severely hampered by continuous rainfall and the collapse of a crucial bridge
Rescue Effort
Over 200 army personnel, along with state and national disaster relief teams, have been deployed to assist in the search and rescue operations. Despite the challenging conditions, more than 3,000 people have been rescued and moved to 45 relief camp
Community and Government Response
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called the landslide a “catastrophic event” and assured that all possible resources are being mobilized to aid in the rescue and relief efforts.
Causes and Concern
Experts attribute the landslides to a combination of factors, including extremely heavy rainfall, climate change, and the fragile terrain of the Western Ghats.
Looking Ahead
As rescue operations continue, the focus will also shift to rehabilitation and rebuilding. The state government has promised financial aid and support to the affected families.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need for sustainable environmental practices and better disaster preparedness in the region.