Kerala Landslides: PM Modi Expresses Anguish Over Loss Of Lives, Announces Rs 2 Lakh Ex Gratia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed anguish over the loss of lives in landslides. At least 19 people have died while over 100 are feared trapped in the incident.

In a post on X, PM Modi said that he has assured Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of all possible help from the Centre to handle the crisis. He has also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000.

He wrote, "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 Pinarayi Vijayan and also assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there."

The Prime Minister has has asked BJP president J P Nadda to mobilise party workers in the region to assist in the ongoing relief work.

On the other hand, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition and Wayanad MP, has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families. In a social media post, he wrote, "I am deeply anguished by the massive landslides near Meppadi in Wayanad. 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. I have spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway."

Pinarayi Vijayan announced that all government agencies are participating in rescue operations in response to the landslides in Wayanad district.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) said that Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed to the affected area, with an additional NDRF team on its way to Wayanad.