New Delhi: The devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, continue to leave a trail of sorrow and uncertainty, as search and rescue operations enter their fifth day, the death toll has risen to 335, with over 200 people discharged from hospitals.
However, the grim reality of the situation is reflected in the staggering number of missing individuals – over 300 people remain missing, with chances of survival dwindling with each passing day.
Despite the despair, around 40 rescue teams equipped with advanced technology and trained cadaver dogs tirelessly comb through the debris, clinging to the possibility of finding survivors. Radars are being used to detect even the slightest movements under the rubble, offering a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.
The tragic incident has triggered a blame game between the Kerala government and the central government, with accusations flying over the effectiveness of early warning systems. Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that the Kerala government could have mitigated the losses if they had heeded the warnings issued by the central government regarding potential landslides.
However, Congress leaders have countered these claims, pointing to the lack of credible evidence for the alleged warnings. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh filed a privilege motion against Amit Shah for allegedly misleading the Rajya Sabha with his statements about early warnings.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, along with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, visited the affected areas, offering condolences and committing to rebuilding homes for those who lost everything.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast a generally cloudy sky with occasional spells of rain or thundershowers for Wayanad on Saturday.