Wayanad landslide: Parliament mourns 'tragedy'; Rahul Gandhi seeks 'action plan'

New Delhi: Addressing the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday spoke about the devastating landslide tragedy in Wayanad, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive government support. He requested the Defence Minister and Chief Minister of Kerala to  extend all possible support for rescue and medical care.

 "Immediate release of compensation to the families of the deceased is crucial, and I urge an increase in this compensation as well. It is imperative to restore vital transport and communication lines, set up relief centers at the earliest, and prepare a roadmap for the rehabilitation of the affected families," Gandhi stated.

He highlighted the ongoing risk of landslides in Wayanad and the Western Ghats, stressing the need for proactive measures.

"Even as I speak, the threat of landslides looms over several areas in Wayanad and the Western Ghats. Our country has witnessed an alarming rise in the number of landslides in recent years. There is an urgent need for mapping landslide-prone areas and implementing mitigation measures. We must develop an action plan to address the growing frequency of natural calamities in ecologically fragile regions," he added

Union Minister JP Nadda also spoke on the session and expressed his concern.

He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "This is not just a tragedy for Kerala alone; the entire nation is concerned." He assured the members that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is taking proactive measures to support the relief operations in Kerala.

Nadda highlighted that the Prime Minister has spoken with the Chief Minister of Kerala, providing assurance of full support from the central government. "Support from central agencies for relief has already reached Kerala. Work is being carried out in coordination with the state government," he stated.

The minister also underscored the immediate priorities, saying, "Right now, the primary focus is to recover the bodies and save those who can be saved. The Emergency Response System has been activated, and all necessary measures are being taken."

"On behalf of the Government, I assure you that whatever is needed will be done." he added.

(Agency inputs)