'No point in blaming anyone, will get all assistance from Centre'; Suresh Gopi expresses grief over Meppadi landslide

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister Suresh Gopi has expressed grief over the landslide in Meppadi, Wayanad, that led to the death of five people. He said that it is saddening to see those working sincerely for the development of the country meet with such accidents.

He pointed out that there is no point in blaming anyone for the tragedy and that the focus should be on learning important lessons to prevent similar incidents in the future. At the same time, he described as serious the reports that the District Collector had directed the removal of soil from the accident site a week before the landslide, but the instruction was not followed. He urged the state government to take strict action if the reports are found to be true.

Suresh Gopi also said that the information and videos related to the incident received by his office had been shared with the Prime Minister's Office. He assured that the central government would provide all necessary assistance to the state government. Although the Prime Minister is currently on an overseas visit, he has been fully informed about the situation, he added.

He further said that the situation is currently under the control of the government. If any technical support or expert assistance is required, the central government is ready to provide it, Suresh Gopi said.