Wayanad Landslide: Death Toll Surged To 256, 220 People Remain Missing

At least 256 people have died and over 200 others have been injured due to massive landslides in the hilly regions near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad, according to Health Minister Veena George. Thousands are now in relief camps and are experiencing severe emotional distress. “I visited the hospitals and camps. Our main focus is on providing psychological support and preventing the spread of diseases,” she said.

The Army has rescued around 1,000 people, but 220 remain missing as rescue efforts continue into the third day. The Army’s Engineer Task Force from the Madras Engineer Group is building a temporary Bailey bridge in Chooralmala, according to a post on X.

Three landslides hit Wayanad on Tuesday following heavy rainfall, with Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages being the most affected.

The Army has set up a Command and Control Centre in Kozhikode to coordinate humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. Health Minister George stated, “At least 1,500 Army personnel have been deployed for the rescue operation, along with forensic surgeons.”