Wayanad landslides: Autopsy count mounts as health workers battle non-stop to save survivors

Wayanad: Healthcare professionals are working tirelessly around the clock to handle the aftermath of the devastating landslide in Wayanad. They are focused on providing critical care to those severely injured and conducting autopsies on the victims.

"Until 7 am today, we have completed 256 autopsies, which include body parts as well. So, it's not 256 full bodies, but also includes body parts. We have handed over 154 bodies to the district administration," said Kerala Health Minister Veena George.

She revealed that autopsies have been carried out on bodies recovered from the Pothukal area in Malappuram district, where many were swept away by the river. Over 100 autopsies were completed on Wednesday night alone.

"It's quite unfortunate. Last night, we performed 112 autopsies, I think. I saw a health worker there, and she was crying. She hadn't gone home the previous day and was staying back.

"I asked her why, and she said she was in charge of this particular area. She said, 'I can't go home; I have to be here because my people are coming,'" George said.

To support the emergency response, a temporary hospital has been set up in the landslide-stricken area. "Our nearest hospital is the public healthcare centre, which has facilities for autopsies and inquests. We have also deployed teams from other districts to assist with autopsies," she added.

The private sector has also stepped in, sending teams of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers. "They have also sent medicines. We currently have a few patients in the ICU, and some are in critical condition. We have shifted a child who inhaled mud to an advanced medical facility in Kozhikode," she said.

Concerned about potential outbreaks of contagious diseases following the disaster, the minister assured that preventive measures are in place.The minister added that in addition to the temporary hospital, treatment is being provided at various government and private hospitals throughout the district, and "our team is offering wonderful support."

Agencies