Situation Overview

On July 31, district authorities in Wayanad, Kerala, initiated efforts to compile data on the missing following the devastating landslides that struck the area. Rescue operations have resumed to locate those suspected to be trapped under the debris. The tragedy has resulted in the death of at least 150 individuals and left 197 others injured. Helicopters are being employed to airlift injured persons from the affected regions, and 45 relief camps have been set up, currently housing 3,069 people.

Government Response and Aid

In response to the disaster, the Kerala Government has declared a state of mourning on July 30 and 31. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an ex gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Additionally, the Kerala Government has established two control rooms to handle distress calls from affected citizens, with the contact numbers 9656938689 and 8086010833.

Rescue and Relief Efforts

Rescue operations are being intensified with the deployment of additional personnel and equipment. A meeting chaired by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on July 31 resolved to enhance the ongoing search and rescue mission. The Indian Army has been active in the region, providing essential supplies including food and drinking water via helicopters.

Recent Developments

As of the latest updates, two bodies were recovered from the debris in Mundakkai village by soldiers of the 122 Infantry Battalion. These bodies have been transported to Civil Hospitals for further handling. Meanwhile, rainfall in the region has reached 572 mm over the past 48 hours, contributing significantly to the landslides and complicating rescue efforts. The death toll continues to rise, with 91 individuals still unaccounted for.

Ongoing Challenges

Families of the missing continue to experience a mix of hope and desperation as they await news about their loved ones. The ongoing rescue operations are critical as authorities strive to locate and assist those who remain trapped. The situation remains fluid, with continuous updates expected as efforts to manage the crisis progress.