The scenic district of Wayanad in Kerala has been struck by a devastating tragedy as heavy rains triggered massive landslides, claiming at least 45 lives and leaving hundreds feared trapped under the debris. The toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra, expressed deep sorrow for the loss of life and pledged support for the affected communities. He tweeted, “Wayanad is a paradise on earth. To see it devastated by landslides with many lives lost is a tragedy. Our hearts are with the people of Wayanad and we will do whatever we can in the relief effort.” The landslides caused widespread destruction, destroying homes, swelling water bodies, and uprooting trees. The affected villages, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, have been cut off from the rest of the district, further complicating rescue operations. In response to the crisis, the Kerala government has requested the assistance of the Indian Army for rescue efforts. The district administration has established a 24/7 special control room at the police headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram, with the public able to provide information by calling 9497900402 or 0471 2721566. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and assured support after speaking with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. “Distressed by the landslides in Wayanad. My thoughts are with those affected, and rescue operations are ongoing. I’ve assured all possible assistance from the Centre,” Modi stated on social media. Former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi also expressed deep anguish over the situation, offering condolences to the victims’ families and emphasizing the need for coordinated rescue efforts. Gandhi pledged to seek further assistance from Union Ministers to aid Wayanad. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Kerala due to continued heavy rains, which have already led to school closures and significant disruptions. Kerala, known for its vulnerability to severe flooding and landslides, experienced one of its worst floods in 2018, resulting in nearly 500 deaths.
