As the Wayanad landslides crisis enters its fifth day, the situation remains severe, with the death toll now at 215. The massive landslides have left around 206 people still unaccounted for, intensifying the challenges for rescue teams in the affected areas of north Kerala. The Kerala government has urgently requested the deployment of advanced radar equipment, including one Xaver radar and four Reeco radars, which will be airlifted from Delhi by an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft to assist in the search and rescue operations.

Advanced radar technology deployed to locate survivors

The deployment of advanced radar technology is a critical development in the rescue efforts. The Xaver radar and Reeco radars, airlifted by the Indian Air Force, are designed to penetrate through the massive boulders and debris that have buried residential areas like Mundakkai and Chooralmala. These radars will significantly enhance the capability of rescuers to locate those trapped beneath the rubble. The challenging terrain, compounded by waterlogged areas, has made rescue operations extremely difficult.

Mohanlal’s involvement in the rescue operations

In response to the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, renowned Malayalam film superstar and Territorial Army Lieutenant Colonel, Mohanlal, has actively participated in the rescue operations. His involvement is a hands-on effort to aid the affected community, rather than just a celebrity appearance.

Mohanlal visited the landslide-hit villages of Mundakkai and Chooralmala, dressed in army fatigues, reflecting his commitment to the rescue efforts. During his visits, he engaged directly with the rescue teams and disaster response forces, offering words of encouragement and expressing his gratitude for their relentless efforts under harsh conditions. Understanding the long-term impact of such disasters, Mohanlal announced a significant contribution of ₹3 crore through his Viswasanthi Foundation, earmarked for rehabilitation efforts to assist in rebuilding the lives of those affected.

By being on the ground, Mohanlal has helped draw media attention to the situation, which in turn has highlighted the need for more support and hastened the response efforts. His presence has also uplifted the morale of both the victims and the rescue teams.

Mohanlal’s involvement goes beyond typical celebrity advocacy; it shows a deep-seated commitment to using his influence and resources for substantial humanitarian aid. His actions in Wayanad exemplify how public figures can play a crucial role in disaster response and community support, providing both immediate relief and aiding in long-term recovery efforts.

Rahul Gandhi’s Visit to Wayanad Amid Landslide Crisis

Rahul Gandhi, along with Priyanka Gandhi, visited Wayanad to assess the devastating impact of the recent landslides. During their visit, they spent time at the affected sites in Chooralmala, one of the areas worst hit by the landslides. Rahul Gandhi expressed profound sorrow for the tragedy, likening the grief felt to the loss of his own father. He emphasized the national significance of the disaster and pledged to support the local community in overcoming this tragedy. The visit highlighted the dire need for aid and the long-term recovery efforts required in the region. Both leaders also interacted with the victims, offering condolences and support to those who had lost family members and homes.

Their presence aimed to draw more attention to the tragedy, hoping to accelerate relief efforts and garner more support from across the country. This visit followed a series of postponed plans due to adverse weather conditions that initially hindered their travel to the area.

Political controversy over disaster relief donations

The disaster relief efforts have sparked political controversy, particularly regarding donations to the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF). Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala announced a personal donation of one month’s salary to the CMDRF, which led to criticism from KPCC chief K Sudhakaran. Sudhakaran argued that contributions should be directed elsewhere and questioned the need for donations to the CMDRF, which is managed by the CPI(M)-led Left government. This internal party disagreement coincides with online smear campaigns against the CMDRF, with the police reporting 39 FIRs and identifying 279 social media accounts involved in these campaigns.

Expert opinion on the rescue and recovery efforts

Experts are describing the Wayanad landslides as one of the most severe natural disasters in recent Indian history. The deployment of Xaver and Reeco radars is seen as a crucial step in improving rescue operations and increasing the chances of locating survivors. Despite the political and social challenges, the collective efforts of public figures like Mohanlal and the solidarity shown by various sectors reflect a determined response to the crisis.

What triggered the Wayanad landslides?

The landslides in Wayanad were primarily triggered by heavy monsoon rains. Wayanad is one of the regions identified by the Indian Space Research Organisation’s National Remote Sensing Centre as prone to landslides, emphasizing the geographic and climatic vulnerability of the area.

What technologies are being used in the rescue operations?

To enhance the effectiveness of the rescue operations, advanced radar technologies such as the Xaver radar and Reeco radars have been deployed. These technologies are crucial for penetrating the debris and helping locate survivors buried under the rubble.

What has been the response from public figures?

Malayalam film superstar Mohanlal, also a lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army, has been actively involved in the rescue operations. His presence and the financial support from his foundation are significant boosts to both the rescue efforts and the subsequent rehabilitation initiatives.

What controversies have arisen during the relief efforts?

There has been some political controversy concerning the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF). Discussions and disagreements within political parties about where donations should be directed have surfaced, reflecting differing views on the management of the funds during this crisis.

What is the impact of these landslides on the community and the region?

The landslides have caused significant loss of life and damage to property, profoundly impacting the local community. The ongoing rescue efforts and the national and international support highlight the severity of the disaster and the urgent need for effective relief and recovery measures.

The situation in Wayanad is one of the most severe natural disasters in recent Indian history, drawing nationwide attention and requiring a concerted effort from all quarters to manage the crisis effectively. The community’s resilience and the dedicated efforts of rescue teams are critical in navigating the aftermath of this tragedy.

  Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund, Indian Air Force, K Sudhakaran, Kerala, Mohanlal, Rahul Gandhi, Ramesh Chennithala, Reeco radars, Territorial Army, Viswasanthi Foundation, Wayanad, Wayanad landslides, Xaver radar