The Army, along with the NDRF, Indian Navy, Air Force, state rescue teams, and Coast Guard, have intensified extensive rescue operations as Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Friday confirmed 308 deaths in the multiple landslides that hit Wayanad on 30 July. Indian Army, today, found four alive individuals – two males and two females – who were stranded in Padavetti Kunnu, Wayanad. The operation was carried out with precision and care, ensuring the safety of all individuals involved, Indian Army said.
“A casualty evacuation was coordinated, and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) was launched to facilitate the rescue. The swift response and seamless execution of the operation ensured the timely evacuation of the stranded individuals. Unfortunately, one of the rescued females is experiencing difficulties with her leg and is receiving necessary medical attention,” said Army sources engaged with rescue operations. The source added that the air effort was on hold, and ground parties were on foot with stretchers routed for further rescue.
The Indian Army earlier today handed over the 190-foot Bailey Bridge to the civil administration. The bridge was built over the Iruvanjippuzha River, connecting the regions Chooralmala and Mundakkai, which were isolated by the landslides. The construction of the Bailey Bridge was crucial in the rescue operations. On Wednesday, the Indian Air Force Aircraft C 17 airlifted one Bailey bridge and three search and rescue dogs of the Indian Army dog squad from Delhi to Kannur. These trained dogs will help in searching for humans under the debris in the disaster-hit area.
Continuing with the rescue and relief operations, the Indian Navy ALH of INS Garuda undertook aerial reconnaissance of the affected area and airlifted 12 state police personnel along with rescue equipment to the disaster area, which was inaccessible by road, said the Navy’s Spokesperson on Friday.
A major landslide hit the Chooralmala and Mundakkai areas of the Wayanad district of Kerala on 30 July. Based on the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) request, the Southern Naval Command dispatched a disaster relief team of 68 personnel from INS Zamorin at Ezhimala to the landslide-affected site on 30 July. The rescue team, comprising skilled personnel, the medical team, and necessary equipment, reached the site, and additional teams have been kept on standby for deployment at short notice, a Navy official said.
An ALH detachment in SAR configuration was deployed from Kochi to Calicut on 31 July to augment the rescue efforts. Adverse weather conditions due to incessant rains pose challenges in the area. The official said all-out efforts are underway to provide immediate relief and support to the local populace impacted by the disaster.
Team BharatShakti
