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Wayanad Landslides , Kerala – As the search and rescue operations enter the fifth day on Saturday, rescuers are holding on to hope as they continue to search for survivors amidst the devastation caused by the deadly landslides in Wayanad, Kerala. Advanced technical gadgets and cadaver dogs are being deployed in a desperate bid to find anyone still alive under the debris.
The number of bodies recovered has now risen to 210, with 187 people having been discharged from hospitals. However, around 300 people are still unaccounted for, and the hope of finding them alive is dwindling with each passing hour.
A Glimmer of Hope Amidst the Tragedy
On the fourth day of rescue operations, a family of four was miraculously rescued from an isolated house near Padavetti Kunnu. This remarkable survival story has provided a glimmer of hope for the hundreds of rescuers who are tirelessly combing through the rubble in search of survivors.
Forest officers, led by Kalpetta Range Forest Officer K Hashis, carried out a daring rescue operation to save four toddlers and their parents from a tribal community. The team trekked deep into the forest to bring the family to safety, showcasing the bravery and dedication of the rescue teams.
High-Tech Search Efforts
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan shared on Facebook that radars are detecting even the slightest movements, offering some hope that more survivors could be found. Around 40 rescue teams, along with cadaver dogs, are conducting search operations in six zones of the landslide-hit areas. The dogs’ keen sense of smell is proving invaluable in locating people trapped under the debris.
An official involved in the operation mentioned that a “blue signal,” indicating potential breath signs, was received on the radar while searching a house in the severely affected Mundakkai village. Unfortunately, by Friday evening, the rescue personnel concluded that it was unlikely anyone was alive under the debris in that area.
Weather Challenges and Global Condolences
The India Meteorological Department has forecast a generally cloudy sky with occasional spells of rain or thundershowers for Wayanad on Saturday, posing additional challenges for the ongoing search and rescue operations.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their condolences and commended the bravery of Indian service members and first responders. “We mourn with the families who have lost loved ones and continue to hold the people of India in our thoughts during this difficult time,” the White House said in a statement.
Also Read: Himachal Pradesh: 50 Missing After Cloudbursts, Flash Flood Warning Issued
Controversy and Political Reactions
In the aftermath of the tragedy, political tensions have risen. The Centre issued a draft notification to declare over 56,800 square kilometers of the Western Ghats, including 13 villages in Kerala’s Wayanad, as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). This notification came a day after the landslides claimed over 300 lives in Wayanad.
The Congress has accused the Centre of delaying the ‘ecologically sensitive area’ tag for a portion of the Western Ghats, claiming that this delay is directly responsible for the human tragedy in Wayanad. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh has moved a Privilege Motion notice in the Rajya Sabha against Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his “Early Warning” claims regarding the Wayanad landslide. Ramesh stated that Shah misled the Rajya Sabha with false statements on early warnings, constituting a breach of privilege and contempt of the house.
Wayanad Landslides and Resilience Amidst Destruction
Despite the immense destruction and loss, the spirit of resilience remains strong in Wayanad. The community is coming together, providing support and assistance to those affected by the landslides. As the rescue operations continue, the hope of finding more survivors keeps the rescuers going.
The Wayanad landslides have highlighted the urgent need for sustainable development and effective disaster management strategies. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural calamities.
As the district of Wayanad navigates through this challenging time, the thoughts and prayers of the nation are with the families of those affected, and with the brave rescuers who are working tirelessly to bring hope amidst the devastation.
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