“Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit landslide-hit Wayanad, Kerala on August 10, 2024, to assess damage and support relief efforts. His visit includes stops at a relief camp, hospital, and Bailey bridge, as well as an aerial survey of the disaster zone. The trip comes amid calls for a national disaster declaration and significant federal assistance.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the landslide-affected Wayanad district in Kerala on August 10, 2024. This visit comes as the region grapples with the aftermath of a devastating landslide that occurred on July 30, flattening localities including Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Attamala. The visit is anticipated to provide a significant boost to relief and rehabilitation efforts in the region.
Itinerary and Key Activities
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the disaster-affected areas. The itinerary includes stops at a relief camp, a local hospital, and the Bailey bridge constructed by the Army to aid in relief and rescue operations. The Prime Minister will also undertake an aerial survey of the disaster zone to better understand the scale of the damage.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at Kannur airport via a special flight and then travel to Wayanad by Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter. His visit will involve interactions with survivors and injured individuals to gauge the ground situation and offer support. Following his visit, Mr. Modi will return to New Delhi at 4 p.m. the same day.
Response to the Disaster
The Kerala Government and the district administration are coordinating closely with the Prime Minister’s Special Protection Group (SPG) team to ensure the safety and security of the visit. An advance SPG team has already scouted for a safe landing zone for the Prime Minister’s helicopter, with Kerala Police working in tandem to streamline the visit.
The scale of the disaster has prompted calls for the Central government to declare it a national disaster. Such a declaration could facilitate the release of significant Central funds for the relief and rehabilitation of the affected regions. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has highlighted the unprecedented scale of the disaster, urging the Centre to consider an “L3 categorisation” for the event.
Political and Administrative Developments
The visit comes amid a politically charged atmosphere. The ruling front and opposition in Kerala have both requested federal assistance, emphasizing the need for a national disaster declaration. However, BJP leaders from Kerala, including Union Minister of State for Tourism Suresh Gopi and Union Minister of State for Fisheries George Kurian, have been cautious. They have indicated that the Centre is reviewing the legality of the request and assessing the situation based on various parameters. Reports from state officials are being considered before making a final decision.
Implications for Relief and Rehabilitation
Prime Minister Modi’s visit is expected to be a crucial step in addressing the immediate needs of the disaster-struck population. The presence of the Prime Minister underscores the Central government’s commitment to supporting Kerala during this challenging time. The visit also highlights the importance of coordinated efforts between state and central authorities in managing disaster response and recovery.
The ongoing political discourse surrounding the disaster declaration and relief measures reflects the broader implications of the visit. It underscores the need for effective disaster management strategies and the importance of timely federal support in mitigating the impact of such catastrophic events.
As Prime Minister Modi prepares to visit Wayanad, the focus remains on providing relief and support to those affected by the landslide. The visit will not only offer a firsthand view of the disaster but also help mobilize resources and support for the recovery efforts. The coordination between various agencies and the potential declaration of the disaster as a national emergency will be pivotal in shaping the future response and rehabilitation plans for the region.
