New Delhi, August 2

Four people were found alive during search operations on the fourth day after massive landslides struck Kerala’s Wayanad district. A family of four was discovered injured in their house at Padavettikunnu, three kilometers from Chooralmala, according to media reports. Arrangements are being made to airlift the family to a hospital. The death toll has risen to 308, though the official count remains at 201.

A rescue team of over a thousand members, drawn from various forces and local volunteers, has been divided into nine groups to work tirelessly in helping people and searching for the missing, according to media reports.

The disaster occurred around 2 am on Tuesday, cutting off several areas from the rest of the region. Among the most affected areas are Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. Rescue teams from the Army, Navy, and NDRF are jointly searching for survivors despite challenging weather conditions, while multiple agencies are coordinating efforts to deliver essential aid to those affected. After the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoken to Kerala CM and assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation in Wayanad. “Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured. Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri @pinarayivijayan and also assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his post on X previously known as twitter.

The situation has worsened as floodwaters swept away numerous vehicles, leaving them stuck in tree trunks and submerged in various locations. Media reports indicate that swollen water bodies altered their course, flowing through inhabited areas and causing further destruction. Massive boulders tumbled down the hills, obstructing rescue efforts. Despite heavy rains, rescue workers have been diligently transporting the deceased and injured to ambulances.