Death toll in massive landslide in Wayanad rises to 135

In Kerala, the death toll in the massive landslide that devastated Wayanad yesterday has risen to 135. The death toll is likely to rise further. 186 persons are undergoing treatment at various hospitals in the region. Nearly 200 people are missing, however, the exact number of those missing is yet not known. A joint rescue and relief operation by the Army, Navy, Air Force, NDRF and other agencies has begun.

 

45 relief camps have been opened in Wayanad, where 3,069 persons have been accommodated. Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian reached Wayanad last night and took stock of the relief operations. He interacted with the senior officials of NDRF and the Army. He also



visited a relief camp at Kalpetta. Speaking to media persons in Kozhikode, the Minister said search and rescue operations will be intensified from today. He said three more NDRF teams and a Dog Squad of the Indian Army will also join the operations.

 

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will be visiting Wayanad today. Meanwhile, the IMD has declared an Orange Alert in Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod, indicating the possibility of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall. The authorities have declared a holiday for educational institutions in 12 districts except Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.