Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Provides Comprehensive Relief to Landslide Victims in Wayanad

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Ensures Relief for Landslide Victims in Wayanad

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced on Tuesday that the state government is undertaking extensive relief efforts to support the victims in the four landslide-struck villages of Wayanad. The measures include providing new mobile phones, free ration, and fresh duplicate certificates to all those in need.

“Search operations are ongoing with the involvement of multiple teams, including the army, fire service, and police,” said Vijayan. “Today, they have reached Sunrise Valley by helicopter, and our aim is to ensure no area is left unsearched. We have also received significant support from local volunteers.”

According to official figures, the death toll stands at 224, although other reports suggest it could be over 400. Vijayan provided a detailed update: “224 people have lost their lives, and 154 are missing. So far, 157 different body parts have been recovered, and 88 people are undergoing treatment in hospitals. Public funerals, attended by religious leaders from various faiths, have been held, and more land will be acquired for the internment of bodies and body parts being recovered.”

A total of 1,174 rescue teams, nearly 90 heavy earth-moving equipment, and 237 ambulances are currently deployed in the affected areas. Vijayan assured the provision of high-quality food for those in shelter camps and the rescue teams.

“Many buildings are in near dilapidated condition and will be demolished using the provisions of the Disaster Management Act,” Vijayan stated. “A four-member Central team is arriving, and all necessary facilities will be provided to them, with our officials accompanying them.”

Post-disaster assessments will be conducted by the relevant authorities. The Public Works Department (PWD) will assess the damage to buildings, and experts will evaluate the condition of remaining structures. Full-fledged health teams are reaching out to provide necessary attention to those in affected areas. Schools will reopen as relief camps in school buildings are relocated. A brand-new school kit will be provided to all students, and online classes have already begun in the camps.

Vijayan expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response to appeals for donations to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund. “The generosity of our people is very evident as we receive innumerable offers for rehabilitation. The state will manage the rehabilitation efforts with the support of all,” he said.

In his address, Vijayan also criticized Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav for his remarks on the tragedy.

The Kerala government remains committed to providing solace and support to the victims and ensuring a thorough and compassionate response to the disaster.