On the early morning of Tuesday, July 30, 2024, a series of catastrophic landslides struck the hilly regions near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. The landslides, which occurred between 2 AM and 4 AM, have caused 295 fatalities (as of August 1, 2024, 7:14 PM) and left several people missing.

The most severely impacted areas include Mundakai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages, with the heaviest damage reported in Mundakai and Chooralmala. Entire villages were buried under massive debris, with homes, shops, and vehicles swallowed by the earth. A crucial bridge was also washed away, cutting off access to the affected areas.

Damage Overview

The scale of the disaster is staggering, with the following key damage data reported:
• Total Fatalities: 295 bodies recovered, with 98 identified.
• Missing Persons: 392 individuals are still unaccounted for, including 29 children.
• Injuries: 220 people are currently hospitalized, with 101 receiving medical treatment.
• Infrastructure Damage: 348 buildings have been severely damaged, including homes and essential facilities.
• Relief Camps: 106 relief camps have been established, currently housing 11,645 displaced individuals.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has mobilized Fire force and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected areas, where hundreds are feared to be trapped under the debris. The army-led search and rescue mission in landslide-hit Mundakkai and Chooralmala has saved 1,000 people, but local reports indicate that 392 people remain missing.

Caritas India’s Response

In response to this devastating tragedy, Caritas India, the national organ of the Catholic Church’s social and humanitarian responses in India, has activated its Emergency response protocols and deployed a team on the ground. Caritas India is working closely with local diocesan organizations in Wayanad to assess the needs of the affected communities and plan both short-term relief support and long-term livelihood restoration and rehabilitation.

Caritas representatives have been actively visiting relief camps, engaging with authorities and inmates to assess ongoing needs. This grassroots approach enables the organization to adapt its interventions and provide targeted assistance, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations receive the help they require.

As a follow-up, Caritas India Associate Director Fr Antony Fernandes will be visiting the affected areas on August 3, 2024, to further assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts. Additionally, Caritas India Executive Director Fr. (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura will be visiting the affected areas on August 10, 2024, to oversee the ongoing response and plan for long-term rehabilitation.

Most Rev. Andrews Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, has issued a National Appeal for support, urging all people of goodwill and Church institutions to contribute generously to this humanitarian call. Caritas India is already on-site, coordinating with its local partners (WSSS, Shreyas, and Jeevana) to provide immediate relief support and trauma counseling to the affected communities.

Immediate Needs and Ongoing Challenges

As rescue operations continue, the situation remains critical, with ongoing rain hampering efforts. The India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in Kerala for the next 24 hours, which could further affect the rescue operations. The scale of the disaster is immense, with hundreds still trapped under debris, and officials warn that the death toll could double.

Caritas India is committed to standing with the people of Wayanad during this difficult time and will continue to work tirelessly to provide the necessary support and assistance to the affected communities. The organization appeals to all people of goodwill to come together in solidarity with these suffering people and contribute generously to this humanitarian call. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by this tragedy.