Wayanad landslide: Grieving families bid final goodbyes at Meppadi crematorium

Kalpetta: The Meppadi public crematorium has become a place of immense heartbreak as families say their final goodbyes to loved ones lost in the Wayanad tragedy. The scene is one of distress, as dreams and savings of a lifetime were shattered in a single night. The crematorium echoed with the cries of those mourning the victims.

From 7 pm Tuesday to 3 am Wednesday, 15 bodies were cremated here. The cremation resumed at 7 am Wednesday. Many of the deceased were severely disfigured, with some bodies unrecognisable. The emotional toll is evident, with families as well as volunteers leading the funeral rites amidst scenes of grief and despair.

As of now, nearly 180 deaths have been officially confirmed due to the landslides in Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad. Post-mortems for 143 individuals have been completed. All bodies underwent post-mortem examination at Meppadi.

Meanwhile, the Indian Armed Forces have intensified rescue operations, successfully evacuating over 1,000 individuals from affected areas to safety. Working closely with the civil administration and disaster relief forces, the Armed Forces have been conducting extensive rescue efforts.

Through a combination of improvised bridging and dedicated human effort, over 1000 individuals have been safely evacuated. Rescued individuals are receiving necessary care at the mosque area in Mundakkai, while the deceased are being shifted to the Tea Garden Labour Colony for further action by civil authorities.