Major General VT Mathew, the General Officer Commanding for Karnataka and Kerala, announced on Thursday that over 100 bodies have been recovered following severe landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. More than 500 Army personnel are actively involved in the search and rescue operations. The landslides, which struck Mundakkai and Churalmala early on July 30, caused extensive damage and resulted in 167 fatalities according to the Kerala Revenue Department.
“We have been assisting the Kerala government and its people since the morning of July 30. We have recovered more than 100 bodies, although the total count is higher. Many people have also been rescued,” said Major General Mathew.
He also mentioned that the construction of a crucial bridge, expected to be completed by 10 am today, will significantly aid the rescue efforts. “Almost everyone needing help has been rescued. Our next step is to check homes for any trapped individuals, which requires heavy equipment. Once the bridge is finished, we will bring in the necessary equipment and continue our search. We’re working around the clock on this,” he added.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George reported that 154 bodies have been handed over to the district administration and that genetic samples are being collected from the recovered body parts. She expressed criticism of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments that the Kerala government could have reduced the impact of the disaster, calling the remarks “unfortunate.”
Home Minister Shah had earlier suggested that the Kerala government failed to act on warnings about potential landslides, which could have mitigated the damage. He stressed that the Narendra Modi government will support Kerala despite the situation.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, along with the Chief Secretary Dr. V Venu and DGP Shaik Darvesh Sahib, is traveling to Wayanad. Union Minister George Kurien, who is also assessing the situation, mentioned that several columns of the army, NDRF, and DSE are present, with helicopters from the Army, Air Force, and Navy aiding in the relief efforts.
The Madras Engineers Group (MEG) is making progress on rebuilding the bridge at Choorlamalai despite challenging conditions. The landslides have caused significant damage, including the destruction of roads and homes, making rescue operations difficult. Efforts are ongoing, with political leaders coordinating and financial aid being organized for the affected region.