Tribal family stranded in Wayanad forest rescued in daring operation

Kalpetta: In a daring rescue operation, Kerala Forest Department officials successfully evacuated children and families trapped deep within a forest near Attamala, following a landslide and severe weather conditions.

A team led by Kalpetta Range Officer Aashiq bravely rescued a family, including children, who were trapped without food and water near Attamala in Wayanad. 

"Our team spent nearly four hours navigating the rugged terrain, using ropes to reach the stranded families. We had to carefully carry the children through steep and slippery hills back to safety. The adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, added to the complexity of the rescue mission," explained an official.

Four children of Krishnan, a tribal, were found stranded near Soochipara waterfall, with three now sheltered at the forest department's camp shed. Krishnan, his wife, and their four young children had sought refuge in the area during the rainfall. 

 

"We came across the children's mother alone in the forest, indicating they were isolated. Following her guidance, we located the children near a rock formation close to the Soochipara waterfall. They were severely affected by the recent landslide. Upon finding the children, we provided them with biscuits and bread, securing them to our chests with pieces of bedsheet to shield them from the rain," Ashiq explained. 

The rescue operation | Mathrubhumi

The children, who were in poor health due to the harsh climate, were safely evacuated, and provided with food and clothing.