Kozhikode, July 30: With the death toll in the massive landslides at Churalpara in Kerala's Wayanad on Tuesday rising to 44 and hundreds of people stranded, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday sought help from the Indian Army's Bengaluru-headquartered Madras Engineering Group.

The MEG is known for setting up temporary infrastructure very quickly. The state authorities with the help of NDRF have already started work to set up a temporary bridge in Churalpara. CM Vijayan has also asked for drones to be employed in the worst affected areas -- Churalpara, Velarimala, Mundakayil and Pothukalu. Wayanad Landslide: Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Express Sorrow After Landslides Claim Lives in Kerala, Call for Urgent Rescue and Relief Operations.

According to the locals, in these areas, the destruction has been massive. Several houses were washed away and many roads collapsed. Hundreds of people waited for help to arrive after a bridge was washed away. Huge boulders rolled down the hills and hindered the path of rescue workers at several places. Vehicles washed away in floodwaters could be seen stuck in mud and tree trunks. Wayanad Landslide: PM Narendra Modi Announces INR 2 Lakh Ex-Gratia to Kin of Deceased; Speaks to Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Assures All Possible Help.

Massive Landslides Hit Wayanad

Rescue Operations Underway

CM Vijayan has also asked for the Kerala Police Dog squad to reach the affected areas. The police have set up a 24-hour control room and the phone numbers are -- 9497900402, 0471 2721566. The landslides were reported to have occurred at around 2 a.m.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2024 12:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).