Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are visiting Kerala's Wayanad district to assess the aftermath of devastating landslides that have resulted in 172 fatalities. Due to severe weather conditions, their trip was postponed earlier this week. The Indian Army and state authorities are coordinating rescue efforts, with the death toll expected to rise as 191 people are still missing. The region is still under a red alert for heavy rain, which complicates the rescue and relief operations.
Wayanad Landslides: Aftermath and Relief Efforts
On August 9, 2019, a series of devastating landslides struck Wayanad district in Kerala, India. The landslides, triggered by heavy rainfall, resulted in 172 fatalities and left 191 people missing.
Background
Wayanad is a mountainous district in the Western Ghats region of Kerala. The district is known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries. However, Wayanad is also susceptible to landslides due to its steep slopes and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
Aftermath and Relief Efforts
The landslides caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and homes. The Indian Army and state authorities have been coordinating rescue efforts, with the death toll expected to rise as more bodies are recovered.
Relief camps have been set up to provide shelter and assistance to those affected by the landslides. The Indian government has announced a compensation package of Rs 10 lakh (US$14,000) for the families of each deceased person and Rs 5 lakh (US$7,000) for each injured person.
Leader of Opposition Visits Wayanad
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Wayanad on August 12, 2019, to assess the aftermath of the landslides. They met with victims and their families and expressed their condolences. Gandhi also announced that the Congress party would provide financial assistance to the affected families.
FAQs
What caused the landslides? The landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall, which loosened the soil on the steep slopes of the Western Ghats.
How many people have died in the landslides? As of August 12, 2019, the death toll stands at 172, with 191 people still missing.
What is being done to help the victims? The Indian Army and state authorities are coordinating rescue efforts, and relief camps have been set up to provide shelter and assistance to those affected. The Indian government has also announced a compensation package for the families of victims.
What is the current status of the affected area? The affected area is still under a red alert for heavy rain, which is complicating rescue and relief operations.
What is being done to prevent future landslides? The government has announced plans to invest in landslide mitigation measures, such as constructing retaining walls and improving drainage systems.
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