On July 30, 2024, Wayanad, a district in Kerala, witnessed a devastating natural disaster when two massive landslides struck the areas of Mundakkai and Chooralmala in the early hours of the morning. The calamity, described as one of “unimaginable proportions,” has led to significant destruction, with over 100 confirmed dead and many more injured or missing.
Tharoor’s Call for Severe Calamity Status
In response to this unprecedented disaster, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging the declaration of the landslides as a “calamity of severe nature” under the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) guidelines. Tharoor’s appeal is aimed at facilitating urgent financial assistance from MPs to the affected areas.
Tharoor’s letter, shared via social media, underscores the gravity of the situation: “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and coordinated response. I am requesting that the Wayanad landslides be classified as a calamity of severe nature under Paragraph 8.1 of the MPLADS Guidelines. This classification would enable MPs to recommend relief works up to ₹1 crore from their MPLADS funds, significantly aiding in relief and rehabilitation efforts.”
Devastation and Response Efforts
The landslides in Wayanad have caused extensive damage, destroying homes, roads, and infrastructure, and severely disrupting local communities. The destruction has been compounded by swollen water bodies and uprooted trees, which have obstructed rescue operations.
The Indian Army, Coast Guard, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been mobilized to address the crisis. Notably, the Army is constructing a 190-foot Bailey bridge to reconnect the affected areas and expedite rescue operations. Despite these efforts, the situation remains dire, with numerous individuals still trapped under debris.
According to the Kerala Revenue Department, 167 people have been confirmed dead. The Department of Information and Public Relations (PRD) in Wayanad has identified 96 victims, including 77 men, 67 women, and 22 children. Post-mortem examinations have been completed on 166 bodies and 49 body parts, with 75 bodies handed over to relatives.
Urgent Need for Support and Coordination
The scale of the disaster necessitates a robust and coordinated response from all levels of government and society. Tharoor’s call for the severe calamity declaration is a crucial step in mobilizing additional resources and support for the affected regions. The financial aid enabled by MPLADS could play a significant role in the relief and rehabilitation efforts required to address the aftermath of the landslides.
Tharoor’s letter highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support, stating: “The extent of the devastation and the number of lives impacted by the landslides make it imperative for all sections of society to extend their support. The situation calls for an extraordinary response to assist in the ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts.”
Summary
The recent landslides in Wayanad have inflicted severe damage and loss of life. Shashi Tharoor’s appeal for the disaster to be declared a “calamity of severe nature” is aimed at facilitating immediate financial assistance and support. The disaster’s impact on the region underscores the urgent need for coordinated relief efforts to address the extensive damage and aid the affected communities.
Key Learning Points:
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Disaster | July 30, 2024 |
| Affected Areas | Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad |
| Confirmed Dead | 167 people |
| Tharoor’s Appeal | Seeks declaration as “calamity of severe nature” for MPLADS aid |
| Current Response Efforts | Army, Coast Guard, and NDRF involved; Bailey bridge construction underway |
| Need for Support | Urgent need for coordinated financial and humanitarian aid |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
