Accident site has not been declared disaster area; will continue rescue operations using all possible means, says CM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 93 bodies were found and 128 injured people have sought treatment so far in the Wayanad landslides. Speaking at the press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, the Chief Minister said that what happened in Wayanad was the worst disaster Kerala has ever seen.

"The tragedy in Wayanad's Mundakkai, Chooralmala and Attamala regions is heart-wrenching. Landslides caused by heavy rains wiped out an entire area. 93 bodies have been found so far. The army team led by Lt. Col crossed the river and reached the Mundakkai market area. All the injured people trapped there are being rescued and brought out," CM said.

"128 people suffered injuries and are undergoing treatment at various hospitals. People, including children, who went to sleep last night lost their lives before dawn and were found buried in the ground. Many people were swept away. The dead bodies of around 16 people were recovered from Chaliyar river at Pothukallu near Nilambur in Malappuram district. Body parts have also been found here. 34 bodies have been identified. 18 dead bodies were handed over to relatives."

"The first landslide occurred at two o'clock this morning. At around 4.10 am, another landslide occurred. Many places in the region, including Meppadi, Mundakkal and Chooralmala were isolated. The Chooralmala, Mundakai road was washed away. The Vellarmala GVH School in the area has been completely buried under the ground.

"Many people are still trapped underground. Will continue to try to find them. Rescue operations will continue using all possible means. We will try to save the maximum number of lives and ensure the best treatment for the injured. 3069 people have been accommodated in 45 camps in the district. Tributes to those who lost their lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose have called and offered help."

"Kerala's Opposition Leader, Deputy Opposition Leader and former Opposition Leader have called and said that we can work together. Five ministers are coordinating the operations in Wayanad. Under the direct supervision of the Ministers, the rescue operation is underway with the help of the army and the necessary equipment. Various forces like the fire force, NDRF, police etc. are working together. The help of military units has also been made available on an urgent basis. Various units of the Army and Navy are reaching out for rescue operations. 329 members of the fire force have been deputed to Wayanad from various districts," the CM added.