Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired an all-party meeting in Wayanad on Thursday following the state’s worst-ever natural disaster. Late Tuesday night, devastating landslides struck the area, resulting in at least 281 deaths, 200 missing persons, and the destruction of numerous habitations. Vijayan thanked the multi-pronged rescue team of over 1,200 professionals for their massive efforts.
The extensive rescue operation involves personnel from all three defense forces, police, disaster relief agencies, fire services, locals, and volunteers. The rescue mission is focused on the four worst-affected areas of Wayanad: Churalpara, Velarimala, Mundakayil, and Pothukalu.
Vijayan reported that the army informed him there is little hope for finding more survivors in the worst-hit regions. However, a bailey bridge at Churalmala is now operational, allowing large earth-moving equipment to reach isolated areas.
“The urgent need is a proper rehabilitation program, and we have already started working on it. We have good experience in handling rehabilitation, so it will be done efficiently,” Vijayan assured.
More than 8,000 people have been safely evacuated and accommodated in 82 relief camps.
Regarding the rehabilitation process, Vijayan announced that the relief camps would operate for an extended period. To maintain order and privacy, the camps will be cordoned off from the media, with visitors allowed to meet camp members only in the reception area. Distribution within the camps will be managed centrally to ensure proper supply of essentials.
To support the education of children in the camps, an online education system will be implemented for students in the affected areas. Those who lost their certificates in the disaster will be issued new ones.
Acknowledging the mental trauma caused by the disaster, Vijayan emphasized that counseling services have already begun. He noted that tribal families are hesitant to leave their surroundings, so food supplies will be delivered to them. He also highlighted the importance of preventing a secondary disaster, such as an epidemic outbreak, and urged cooperation with health officials for proper disposal of dead animals.
Since the disaster occurred, 12 cabinet ministers have been stationed in Wayanad. A four-member Cabinet sub-committee, comprising Ministers of Revenue, Forest, Public Works, and SC/ST, has been established to oversee the situation.
“We have requested the central government to declare this a national disaster, and we will wait for their decision,” Vijayan added.
Expressing his displeasure over political exploitation of the tragedy, Vijayan remarked, “Even in this massive tragedy, some people are playing spoilsports and are trying to create problems. The best approach is to ignore such people.”
The meeting underscored the state government’s commitment to rescue and rehabilitation efforts, aiming to restore normalcy in Wayanad as quickly as possible.
