Meet Seeram Sambasiva Rao: The Man Leading Wayanad Landslide Relief Efforts

In the wake of recent landslides in Wayanad, Seeram has been appointed to oversee disaster management and relief operations, demonstrating his continued dedication to public service.

His Career

His career has been marked by a series of significant roles. Notably, he served as the Kozhikode Collector, where his tenure was distinguished by a compassionate approach to addressing the needs of the city's most vulnerable. He has also held positions as Director of Survey and Land Records, Executive Director of Information Kerala Mission (IKM), and Joint Secretary of the Public Works Department. Each of these roles has seen him contribute significantly to the state's governance and development, according to a report in Mathrubhumi.

During his time as Kozhikode Collector, Seeram launched a crucial programme to provide shelter and support for the city's homeless population, which predominantly consisted of migrant workers from North India. The initiative began amid initial resistance, as many street dwellers were wary of government intentions. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for intervention, particularly given the health vulnerabilities among the homeless.

One of the most impactful aspects of the initiative was the provision of skill and vocational training, which enabled over a hundred individuals to find employment across various sectors.

Meanwhile, 93 people have been killed with over 200 people injured.

In the early hours of Tuesday, landslides caught the sleeping villagers off-guard, transforming the otherwise picturesque hamlets in the hilly district into scenes of devastation and despair. The natural disaster left a trail of destruction in the southern state.

Rescue teams, including personnel from the Army, Navy, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are working tirelessly in challenging weather conditions to search for survivors. Multiple agencies are collaborating to provide essential assistance to those affected.

A senior government official said that heavy rains triggered a series of massive landslides in the hilly areas of Meppadi.