Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi Postpone Visit to Landslide-Affected Wayanad Due to Bad Weather

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra postponed their planned visit to landslide-hit Wayanad on Wednesday morning. Authorities informed them that they could not land due to continuous rain and adverse weather conditions. The Congress leaders assured that they would visit the district as soon as possible.

In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi stated, "Priyanka and I were scheduled to visit Wayanad tomorrow to meet with families affected by the landslide and take stock of the situation. However, due to incessant rains and adverse weather conditions, we have been informed by authorities that we will not be able to land." He added that they would continue to monitor the situation closely and provide all necessary assistance.

Massive Landslides in Wayanad

One of Kerala's worst natural disasters occurred on Tuesday when massive landslides triggered by torrential rain killed at least 123 people and injured 128 in Wayanad. Hundreds were trapped under debris, raising fears of increasing fatalities. Rescue agencies raced against time to pull out any survivors.

Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the landslides near Meppadi. "My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones. I hope those still trapped are brought to safety soon," he said on X. He had spoken to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Wayanad district collector, who assured him that rescue operations were underway.

Congress Leaders' Response

Earlier in the day, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi condoled the loss of lives and urged United Democratic Front (UDF) workers to provide all help to those affected. Rahul Gandhi urged all UDF workers to assist the administration in rescue and relief operations.

Priyanka Gandhi also shared her sentiments on X: "My brothers and sisters in Wayanad, even though we cannot come to Wayanad tomorrow, our hearts are with you at this tragic hour and we are praying for all of you." She expressed deep sadness over the devastation and extended her heartfelt condolences and prayers to those who lost loved ones.

Calls for Immediate Action

Priyanka Gandhi urged the government to expedite relief and rescue operations. "I urge the government to take immediate action to expedite relief and rescue operations and request UDF workers to step forward to do all they can to be of support and comfort to all those affected by this tragedy," she said on X.

In the Lok Sabha later, Rahul Gandhi demanded that the Centre extend all possible support for rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, he also sought enhanced compensation for the next of kin of those killed and restoration of vital transport and communication lines.

Rahul Gandhi had won seats from Uttar Pradesh's Rae Bareli and Kerala's Wayanad in recent elections but chose to represent Rae Bareli in the Lok Sabha. Priyanka Gandhi is expected to contest the bypolls in Wayanad whenever they occur.

The Congress leaders reiterated their commitment to visiting Wayanad as soon as conditions permit. They assured continuous monitoring of the situation and pledged all necessary assistance during this difficult time for Wayanad residents.