The devastating landslides in Wayanad have claimed 158 lives, with the State Revenue Department confirming the grim toll. Survivors are now being housed in various relief camps set up across the district, but their stories of survival and loss paint a haunting picture of the disaster.
One such survivor, Sarojini from Chooranmala, recounted her terrifying ordeal. Alone at home during the night when the landslide struck, Sarojini found herself trapped as the landslide blocked her door. “I felt like my bed was shaking and heard terrifying noises outside. I tried calling my neighbors, but no one answered. I called my son in Coimbatore, and he advised me to climb to the roof for safety. Unfortunately, the door was jammed, and I couldn’t get out. After some time, rescuers arrived and had to break the door with an axe to get me out,” she said.
Sarojini’s home was completely swept away in the second landslide, leaving her not only homeless but also without any means of livelihood. Tragically, she lost her relatives in the disaster; they had been staying in Mundakkai. As of now, two bodies have been recovered, while 6-7 others remain missing.
The landslides, which began with a series of heavy rains and landslides, have severely impacted the Wayanad district. Emergency services are working tirelessly to search for the missing and provide aid to the affected families. Relief camps are being set up in schools and community centers to offer temporary shelter and support to those who have lost everything.
Local authorities are also urging residents to remain cautious and adhere to safety advisories as the region continues to experience adverse weather conditions. The community, along with national and state agencies, is rallying to provide aid and rebuild the lives shattered by this natural disaster.
