Rescue Efforts Underway After Wayanad Landslides

In response to the devastating landslides in Wayanad, a community of mapping volunteers is utilizing open street mapping techniques to create detailed topographical maps, which are essential for effective rescue and relief operations. Approximately 60 hectares have been impacted, with about 500 buildings and four bridges affected. The Indian government has been urged to declare the situation a national disaster and improve technological capabilities for predicting such calamities. Concurrently, authorities are employing GPS data from drones and cell phones to coordinate rescue efforts, dividing the worst-hit areas into six zones manned by specialized teams. Experts highlight that poor planning, including deforestation and unscientific construction, contributed to the disaster, advocating for updated land management policies. Innovations in AI and geospatial technology are being recognized as critical for enhancing disaster resilience and management in India.