On July 30, 2024, a devastating series of landslides struck Kerala’s Wayanad district, triggered by relentless torrential rains. The disaster has claimed at least 143 lives, leaving 186 others injured and hundreds more feared trapped. The landslides, which occurred after the region recorded 372 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours, have caused widespread destruction, cutting off entire villages and complicating rescue efforts. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are leading ongoing rescue operations, while the central and state governments work together to provide much-needed relief to those affected.
Torrential rains have wreaked havoc in Kerala’s Wayanad district, triggering a series of devastating landslides that have resulted in the loss of at least 143 lives, with 186 others injured. The relentless downpour has left hundreds more feared trapped, as rescue operations continue in the affected areas.
The Indian Army has mobilized approximately 300 personnel to assist in search-and-rescue efforts in Wayanad, while another 140 soldiers are on standby in Thiruvananthapuram, ready to deploy if necessary. Naval teams and Air Force helicopters have also been deployed to support the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Army. Additional disaster relief teams, including rescue dog units, are being airlifted to the region.
Kerala has been pounded by incessant rainfall, recording 372 mm in just 24 hours prior to the landslides. The heavy rains have complicated relief efforts, with blocked roads making it difficult to reach the affected areas. The picturesque villages of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha have been cut off from surrounding regions, leaving many stranded.
The weather forecast predicts more rain for Wayanad and several other districts over the coming days. An alert has been issued for Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasargod districts. Additionally, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts are under an orange alert.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, offering the central government’s full support in the ongoing rescue and relief operations. The Prime Minister’s Office has announced financial compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ₹50,000 for those injured in the disaster.
The landslides have caused widespread destruction, with numerous homes demolished, water bodies overflowing, and trees uprooted. Chief Minister Vijayan convened a high-level meeting to assess the situation and ensure that health and safety arrangements are in place at the relief camps. The state Health Department has also established a control room to coordinate emergency assistance, and those in need can reach out through the provided helpline numbers.
