Helpline Numbers Issued after Massive Landslide Hit Kerala's Wayanad, Several Feared Trapped

Wayanad: Helpline numbers has been issued by Health Department following a massive landslide hit Kerala’s Wayanad in the wee hours of July 30th, with several people feared trapped in the debris.

As per the district authorities, five people including two children died and hundreds of people are feared trapped in the tragic incident.  Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages were among the areas affected and cut off by the landslides, authorities said.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan issued a statement and assured people of full assistance as rescue operations are underway.

Helpline Number Issued, Medical Facilities on Alert

The Kerala Health Department has set up a control room and provided helpline numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833 for emergency assistance.

Two Air Force helicopters, an Mi-17 and an ALH, departed from Sulur at 7:30 am to coordinate rescue operations.

Rescue operations are underway and Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has mobilised Fireforce at the place of landslide, stated district authorities.  National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are also assisting the rescue operations. 

Meanwhile, many hospitals in the region, including those in Vaithiri, Kalpatta, Meppadi, and Mananthavadi, are prepared to receive the injured. Additionally, Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced that all health workers have reported for night duty.

Kerala CM Vijayan Assures Assistence

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said that all government agencies have joined the search and rescue operations in the wake of massive landslides that struck various hilly areas near Wayanad's Meppadi district. 

“All possible rescue operations will be coordinated in the landslides in Wayanad. Since the incident came to know, the government systems have joined together in the rescue operation. Ministers will come to Wayanad and lead the activities,” he said.

This is a developing story, more details are still awaited.