PM Modi visits landslide-devastated Wayanad amid calls for national disaster status

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi traveled to Wayanad, Kerala, a region severely impacted by a devastating landslide that occurred last week. The catastrophe has claimed over 300 lives and has left numerous homes damaged or destroyed. During his visit, Modi assessed the situation both on foot and through an aerial survey to gauge the extent of the destruction.

In footage provided by DD News, Prime Minister Modi was observed walking through the affected areas alongside Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Union Minister Suresh Gopi. He was briefed on the disaster's impact and evacuation efforts, with officials presenting him a detailed map of the landslide zone.

Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the landslide-affected area in Wayanad. He is being briefed about the evacuation efforts.

Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister Suresh Gopi are also present. pic.twitter.com/5Tz7mUMPkZ

— ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2024

Modi utilized an Indian Air Force helicopter to conduct an aerial survey of the severely hit regions, including Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Punchirimattam hamlets. The Prime Minister arrived by helicopter from Kannur airport and proceeded to trek through Chooralmala, witnessing the damage firsthand. He also visited a relief camp to interact with survivors and offer support.

Opposition calls for national disaster declaration

The opposition has urged the Central government to classify the Wayanad landslides as a "national disaster" and to provide an extensive rehabilitation package. Rahul Gandhi, addressing the Lok Sabha, emphasized the need for enhanced compensation for the victims and a comprehensive relief plan.

Congress MP Jairam Ramesh remarked, “Almost 300 people have died in the Wayanad landslide. It was our demand that the incident should be declared as a national disaster.”

Government response and funding

In response, government sources clarified that there is no legal provision to declare a natural disaster as a national disaster. They cited a 2013 Lok Sabha statement by Mullappally Ramachandran, then Minister of State for Home, affirming that the concept of a "national disaster" is not recognized under central regulations.

While the declaration of a national disaster is not possible, the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) can still be accessed for emergency relief and rehabilitation. Kerala's State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) had approximately ₹395 crore in its account as of April 1, with an advance release of over ₹145.60 crore for the current year on July 31.