Wayanad Landslides: Over 160 Dead, 200 Injured

Catastrophic landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district have claimed over 160 lives, with more than 190 people still missing and over 200 injured. The Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other agencies have intensified search and rescue operations, recovering many bodies and rescuing nearly 1,000 people. The Army has established a Command and Control Centre and deployed multiple columns, including medical and engineering teams, to aid in the rescue efforts. The disaster has sparked a political blame game, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah accusing the Kerala government of neglecting early warnings, a claim refuted by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The extreme weather event has been linked to the climate crisis and exacerbated by soil erosion, highlighting the region's vulnerability. Celebrities and volunteers are also actively participating in relief efforts, with donations and hands-on assistance pouring in.