On July 30, 2024, Rahul Gandhi, Opposition leader and MP for Wayanad, addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the recent landslides that have severely impacted his constituency. Gandhi highlighted the devastating impact of the landslides, which struck early in the morning, resulting in more than 70 deaths. The landslides have particularly affected Mundakkai village, which has been cut off from the rest of the region. The full extent of the damage and the number of casualties are still being assessed due to the scale of the disaster.

Gandhi’s Appeal for Assistance

In his speech, Rahul Gandhi revealed that he had spoken with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the Chief Minister of Kerala to coordinate the response to the crisis. He emphasized the need for immediate federal support for rescue and medical care, including:

Immediate release of compensation for the deceased, with a possible increase in the amount.

Restoration of vital transport and communication lines.

Setting up relief measures and preparing a roadmap for the rehabilitation of affected families.

Gandhi also pointed out that Wayanad and the Western Ghats face an ongoing threat of further landslides, stressing the urgency of addressing the situation. He called for a mapping of landslide-prone areas and mitigation measures to handle the growing frequency of natural disasters in the ecologically fragile region.

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Heavy Rains and Rising Concerns

The landslides were triggered by heavy rains in the hilly areas of Wayanad district, leading to concerns about a potential increase in fatalities as many people are feared trapped under the debris. The severity of the landslides has led to widespread concern over the effectiveness of the current response efforts.

Government Response

In the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister JP Nadda addressed the situation, describing it as a tragedy that affects not just Kerala but the entire nation. Nadda assured that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, is proactively working on the relief efforts. He stated that the Prime Minister had already spoken with the Kerala Chief Minister and provided assurances of full support.

Conclusion

The ongoing crisis in Wayanad has highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated relief and rehabilitation effort. Rahul Gandhi’s call for federal intervention and the government's assurances reflect the gravity of the situation and the importance of addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions for the affected areas. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of the relief operations and the government's response will be crucial in mitigating the impact of this devastating disaster.

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