Kerala landslide: Indian Army finds four alive in debris amid rescue operations

New Delhi: In a tragic turn of events Indian Army made a remarkable discovery during rescue operations in Wayanad on Friday.  They found four survivors, two men and two women alive amidst the rubble. According to officials, the rescued individuals had been stranded in the Padavetti Kunnu area of Wayanad. The operation was executed with utmost precision and care, prioritizing the safety of everyone involved, and ultimately resulting in a successful rescue mission.

Army's timely evacuation efforts ensure safe rescue

A coordinated casualty evacuation effort was promptly initiated with an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) being deployed to expedite the rescue process. The rapid and well-executed operation enabled the timely extraction of the stranded individuals.

According to the Army's statement, the rescue mission was marked by seamless coordination, ensuring the safe evacuation of all individuals. Additionally, one of the survivor women, who was experiencing leg difficulties, received prompt medical attention from the Army's medical team.

Comprehensive search underway

Kerala ADGP (Law and Order) MR Ajith Kumar stated that the revenue department is working to compile accurate figures on the number of people currently in the affected area and the number of individuals still missing.

He stated that a comprehensive search and rescue operation has been underway for the past four days, involving a collaborative effort from multiple agencies, including the Indian Army, NDRF, local police, special operations groups, fire force, Coast Guard, and Navy, who have been working together to cover all affected areas.

Technology boosts rescue efforts 

Two massive landslides hit the Meppadi region of Wayanad, specifically affecting the areas of Chooralmala and Mundakkai, resulting in extensive damage and devastation on July 30. 

Following the landslide, Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced on Friday that the devastating landslides in Wayanad on July 30 have resulted in 308 confirmed fatalities. Recovery efforts have yielded 195 bodies and 113 body parts to date.

A multi-agency rescue operation involving the Army, NDRF, SDRF and civil administration is ongoing across various locations. It focuses on swift evacuation, essential supplies and medical aid for stranded individuals. To enhance the response, the Indian Air Force will deploy a C-130 aircraft from the Hindon airbase to Wayanad equipped with specialized drone systems and an expert team for sub-soil monitoring. These advanced drones will aid in locating individuals trapped beneath the soil.