Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Wayanad, Kerala, on Saturday to assess the aftermath of a devastating landslide that claimed over 300 lives. He met with survivors and undertook both aerial and on-the-ground surveys of the affected areas. The Prime Minister also chaired a review meeting with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and officials to discuss relief and rehabilitation efforts.
During his visit, PM Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that they are not alone. He also emphasized the central government’s commitment to supporting Kerala in its recovery. “I had a conversation with CM Pinarayi Vijayan the morning when the incident took place and assured him that we will provide assistance and try to reach the spot as soon as possible,” said PM Modi.
He further stated, “We are all standing with them…The Central Govt stand with Kerala Govt and we will ensure no work is hampered due to the lack of money.”
PM Modi’s visit comes amidst requests from the Kerala government to declare the landslide a national disaster and a severe calamity. An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) has already been constituted by the central government to visit the affected areas from August 8 to August 10 to review the situation.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by CM Vijayan, Governor Arif Muhammed Khan, and Union Minister Suresh Gopi during his aerial survey. During his on-the-ground review, he was briefed on the situation by Kerala ADGP (law and order) MR Ajith Kumar.
