Kerala Government Mobilizes Resources for Recovery Efforts

The Kerala government has initiated a large-scale search operation to recover the bodies of victims swept downstream by the Chaliyar River in Malappuram, following devastating landslides in Wayanad. On August 1, rescue workers and local volunteers had already retrieved 58 bodies and 95 body parts from the Chaliyar River, which were carried downstream after the Iruvanjipuzha River was swollen by the landslides.

Search Efforts Expand as Teams Deploy Across Disaster Zone

Authorities have deployed teams from eight police stations near the Chaliyar River, including local scouts and divers, to assist in the search for additional bodies. The landslides, which struck early on July 30, had obliterated the villages of Mundakkai, Attamala, and Chooralmala, causing widespread devastation. The destruction bifurcated the Iruvanjipuzha River and damaged the key bridge connecting Chooramala to Mundakkai.

Navy and Coast Guard Aid in Search for Missing

Revenue Minister K. Rajan, leading the Cabinet subcommittee overseeing the rescue operations, reported that Navy and Coast Guard helicopters had located at least 12 bodies floating downstream. Efforts are underway to search the riverbanks, where bodies have been found at bends in the river. The possibility of bodies being trapped in debris, reeds, and boulders has not been ruled out.

Extensive Resources Deployed for Recovery Operations

The Chief Minister’s Office has organized 40 squads, including Central and State forces, volunteer rescue teams, and local guides, to cover the disaster zone. A Bailey bridge installed by the Army on August 1 has facilitated access for rescue workers and heavy equipment. Squads are equipped with GPS maps, body bags, cutting tools, and stretchers. Additionally, Army and police dog squads have marked potential sites for buried bodies.

Temporary Morgues and Advanced Equipment in Use

A temporary morgue has been set up in a local school, powered by diesel generators, and more ground-penetrating radars and drones are being utilized to aid in body recovery. The Tamil Nadu government has also sent a police dog squad to support the efforts. The disaster area has been divided into six zones, with 50 ambulances and mobile morgue freezers allocated for the transport and storage of recovered bodies.

Government Oversight and Coordination

Minister Rajan, along with Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran, and Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Welfare Minister O.R. Kelu, is overseeing the ongoing search and rescue operations.