Sudarsan Pattnaik pays tribute with sand sculpture for Wayanad landslide victims

Puri: Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a sand sculpture to honour the victims of the recent landslides in Wayanad. The artwork was unveiled in Puri on Friday. The message inscribed on the sand art reads, "Pray for Wayanad."

The sculpture also depicts the buildings and trees destroyed in the landslides. Pattnaik's post on X commended all army, security, and defence officials, as well as voluntary organisations and individuals who are working tirelessly at the scene.

Pattnaik is a renowned sand artist in India, known for his sculptures of social relevance and significant events. His works, including tributes to deceased legends, have garnered widespread attention.

As many as 331 people have died and many more have been injured in the massive landslides that struck Wayanad district three days ago.

According to the government, 201 bodies have been recovered, including those of 82 women and 28 children. Additionally, 130 body parts were also recovered.

So far, 327 autopsies, including those of body parts, have been performed, with 116 bodies handed over to relatives.

Furthermore, 264 people were injured in the disaster; of these, 176 have been discharged, two have been referred to other hospitals, and 86 are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in the district, the department said.

With ANI, PTI inputs