Rescue operations in the landslide-stricken areas of north Kerala have reached their fifth day, with efforts ongoing to locate those still missing. As of Saturday, 215 bodies have been recovered, while approximately 206 individuals remain unaccounted for. The severe terrain, cluttered with large boulders and logs from the landslides, coupled with waterlogged conditions, has significantly hampered rescue efforts.
To aid in locating survivors beneath the debris, deep search radars are set to be deployed. The Kerala government has requested advanced radar technology, including one Xaver radar and four Reeco radars, which will be transported from Delhi by an Indian Air Force aircraft along with their operators.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan indicated that while the search and rescue operations are in their final stages, the challenge remains considerable. He reported that 215 bodies have been recovered to date — 87 women, 98 men, and 30 children — with 148 bodies already identified and handed over to families. Additionally, 81 individuals are injured and receiving treatment in various hospitals.
Addressing rehabilitation efforts, Vijayan announced plans to establish a secure region and construct a new township. He also stated that the Education Minister will visit damaged schools to ensure that education for affected children continues.
In a notable development, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, serving as an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, visited the disaster areas. Dressed in army fatigues, Mohanlal met with Army officers and rescue workers to gain insight into the situation.
He praised the efforts of those involved and announced that the Viswasanthi Foundation, which he founded, will donate ₹3 crore for rehabilitation efforts. Major Ravi, a retired army officer and managing director of the foundation, pledged to rebuild the Mundakkai LP school.
The issue of donations to the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF) has stirred controversy within the Congress party. Senior leader Ramesh Chennithala’s announcement of donating one month’s salary to the CMDRF was met with criticism from KPCC chief K Sudhakaran, who suggested that funds should be directed towards Congress’s own relief efforts instead.
This controversy has been further fuelled by online smear campaigns against the CMDRF, leading to police action. Despite this, many individuals, from tea stall owners to children, have continued to contribute to the fund in support of those affected by the landslides.
