“This is a huge tragedy…”: LoP Rahul Gandhi Urges Central Government to Declare Wayanad Landslides a National Disaster

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday has urged the Central government to declare the landslides in Wayanad, a national disaster. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that the tragedy has claimed over 200 lives, and the heavy rainfall has only exacerbated the situation.

"I visited Wayanad with my sister some days back and saw firsthand the devastation, pain, and suffering resulting from this tragedy. More than 200 people are dead, and many are missing," said Gandhi. He praised the collaborative efforts of various departments and organizations involved in the rescue operations, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and local fire departments. “This is a huge tragedy. I would urge the Union Government to support a comprehensive rehabilitation package for Wayanad including building disaster-resilient infrastructure and helping the communities. I would also like to urge the Government to declare the Wayanad landslide as a national disaster,” he added.

Former Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi accompanied by his sister and senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited the landslide-affected areas of Wayanad on Thursday taking stock on the ground situation. The duo also visited hospitals, morgues and relief camps interacting with people heavily impacted by the natural calamity. He announced that the Congress will construct over 100 houses in Wayanad. The Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha said that it was very painful to see the destruction in Wayanad caused by major landslides; he added that he was feeling the same emotions which he felt during the death of his father.

The rescue and relief operations in Wayanad have now entered their ninth day as the region remains heavily impacted by the landslides that struck on July 30. The Indian Air Force and the Army, along with state authorities, are actively engaged in operations to find survivors and manage the crisis. A specialized team of soldiers and rescue personnel was airlifted to assist with the efforts. Rescue teams are also focusing on the Sunrise Valley of Soojippara waterfalls, deploying trained Army personnel, Kerala Police's Special Operations Groups (SOG), and a dog squad to aid in the search.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has pledged to provide world-class rehabilitation for those affected by the landslides. In a press conference, Vijayan said, "We will ensure world-class rehabilitation. Our goal is to implement a resettlement model that can serve as an example for the nation and the world." He also stated that the government employees and teachers have contributed 5 percent of their salaries to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, which has amassed Rs 53.98 crores as of Monday.​