Wayanad Landslide: Air Force helicopters to be deployed for rescue mission

Kalpetta: Minister K. Rajan has confirmed that airlifting operations will be deployed in the rescue mission for the landslide-hit areas of Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad. Air Force ALH and Mi-17 helicopters have been mobilised for the mission. The helicopters are expected to arrive at the SKMJ School ground in Kalpetta shortly.

Airlifting operations will be conducted from all possible angles, providing an aerial view of the affected areas. NDRF teams are actively engaged in the disaster zone, with additional teams dispatched. The Defence Security Team has also sent two teams to the area, and fire force teams are en route.

Minister O.R. Kelu stated that reaching the disaster site by road is currently impossible due to a washed-out bridge, which presents a significant challenge for rescue efforts. Helicopter assistance has been requested, and the District Collector has informed the army. The minister assured that every possible effort is being made to carry out the rescue operations. Minister A.K. Saseendran emphasised that the extent of the disaster remains unclear and noted that assistance from the Army and NDRF will be necessary.

Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas has reported that Ministers A.K. Saseendran and Kadannappalli Ramachandran have departed from the incident site. Emphasising the ongoing rescue efforts, Mohammed Riyas stated that all available resources are being mobilised. Ministers K. Rajan, Mohammed Riyas, and O.R. Kelu will soon reach the site. A control room has been established and can be contacted at 9656938689 and 8086010833 for updates and assistance.

The landslides began around 2 am on Tuesday, with a second occurrence at approximately 4:10 am. Reports indicate casualties, including a foreign national among the deceased. Many people remain stranded in the affected area as heavy rains continue.