Stand With Kerala: How You Can Help Wayanad Landslide Victims, Check Here Helpline Numbers Issued By Govt

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Landslides, also known as debris flows, mudslides, or rockslides, are natural disasters that involve the movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope. Triggered by various factors such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and human activities like deforestation and construction, landslides pose significant risks to life and property.

Rescue teams are racing against time in Wayanad, Kerala, where a massive landslide has claimed more than 100 lives on Tuesday, 31 July 2024. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) and other agencies are working tirelessly to expedite rescue operations despite the ongoing heavy rainfall.

Many people are still feared trapped in the landslide that struck before dawn. The affected areas include Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha villages, which have been cut off due to the landslides. Several families have been relocated to camps or the homes of their relatives.

Health Department's Response

The health department has set up a district-level control room to manage the situation. Health Minister Veena George stated that all hospitals in the district, including those in Vythiri, Kalpetta, Meppadi, and Mananthavady, are prepared. Additional health workers will be deployed as needed.
A state-level team led by NHM State Mission Director Dr Jeevan Babu will coordinate local health activities. The team includes Health Department Director Dr KJ Reena, Additional Director Dr Ritha, and NHM State Program Manager Dr Bijo.

Control Rooms and Helplines

Several control rooms have been established for rescue and relief efforts:

• Health Minister's office control room: 8075401745
• State control room: 9995220557, 9037277026, 9447732827
• NHM helpline: 8086010833, 9656938689

A taluk-level control room is operational at Chooralmala with contact numbers:

• Deputy Collector: 8547616025
• Thasildar, Vythiri: 8547616601
• Kalpetta Joint BDO Office: 9961289892
• Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspector: 9383405093
• Fire Force Assistant Station Officer: 9497920271
• Vythiri Taluk Office Deputy Thasildar: 9447350688

Stand With Kerala: How You Can Help

You can contribute or help Kerala landslide victims by donating as an individual or group here- Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund.

CM Pinarayi Vijayan has urged unity and support from everyone in the time of crisis and shared this message on CMDRF's website, 'Kerala is battling the havoc wreaked by multiple landslides and flash floods, which has claimed more than 100 lives, injured many more and washed away human habitats in several places including Mundakkai, Wayanad, on the 30th of July 2024. Now long term concerted efforts are required to compensate the loss of lives and livelihoods, rehabilitate the displaced and reconstruct their habitats. You can help rebuild the lives of those hit by natural disasters by making generous contributions to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

Police Efforts And Coordination

A special control room has been set up at the Police Headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram to coordinate relief efforts. They can be contacted at these numbers: 9497900402 and 0471-2721566.

The Kerala Armed Police's 4th and 5th Battalions, Malabar Special Police, and other units have been deployed to Wayanad. These teams include officers trained in disaster management. A special police team has also been sent to Malappuram district for rescue operations.
The State Police Chief is supervising the control room and has instructed the ADGP of Law and Order to coordinate efforts. The IG of Northern Range and DIG of Kannur will soon arrive in Wayanad to lead rescue operations.

Meteorological Predictions and Travel Restrictions

The IMD predicts moderate to intense rainfall with wind speeds up to 50 kmph in several districts including Malappuram, Kasaragod, Kozhikode, Idukki, Ernakulam, Wayanad, Kannur, Palakkad, and Thrissur.

The Palakkad district administration has issued travel restrictions due to the risk of landslides:

• No travel through Churam roads from July 30 to August 2 except for public transport and emergency travel by residents.
• Cargo transport in estate areas is allowed; all other travel is banned during this period.
• Tourist entry to waterfalls is prohibited from July 30 to August 2.
• Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan confirmed that all government agencies are involved in search and rescue operations. State ministers will also visit Wayanad to oversee rescue activities personally.
• The situation remains critical as authorities continue their efforts amidst challenging weather conditions. The focus remains on rescuing those trapped and providing relief to affected families.

How To Keep Yourself Safe During A Landslide

Knowing how to keep yourself safe during a landslide is crucial for minimizing these risks. This post outlines essential steps to protect yourself before, during, and after a landslide.

1. Stay Informed

Monitoring weather reports and geological updates is crucial. Stay updated on local weather conditions, especially during heavy rains or after an earthquake. Pay attention to warnings from local authorities about potential landslide threats. Knowing the risk areas in your vicinity is essential. Identify whether your home or workplace is located in a landslide-prone area by consulting geological maps and local agencies for information on landslide hazards.

2. Create an Emergency Plan

Develop an evacuation plan tailored to your home and neighborhood in case of a landslide. Ensure that all family members are familiar with the escape routes and practice them regularly. Assemble an emergency kit containing essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents. Keep the kit in an easily accessible location for quick retrieval during an emergency.

3. Protect Your Home

Install proper drainage systems around your home to reduce water accumulation, ensuring that gutters and downspouts direct water away from the foundation. Implementing effective landscaping can also help. Plant ground cover on slopes and build retaining walls to stabilize the land. Avoid building structures on steep slopes or at the base of a slope to minimize risk.

4. Stay Educated

Participate in community programs that provide information on landslide preparedness and response. These programs can offer valuable knowledge on how to protect yourself and your property. Attend workshops and training sessions to stay updated on the latest safety practices and emergency procedures related to landslides.

5. Stay Alert During Heavy Rainfall

During periods of heavy rainfall, stay alert for signs of potential landslides. Listen for unusual sounds such as cracking trees or boulders knocking together, which can indicate moving debris. Observe the landscape for sudden changes, such as new cracks in the ground or bulging slopes, which can be precursors to a landslide. If you notice any of these signs, prepare to evacuate immediately.

6. Evacuate Immediately if Necessary

If you suspect a landslide is imminent, evacuate immediately to higher ground or an area not affected by the slide. Do not wait for an official warning if you feel at risk. Move quickly and avoid low-lying areas that could become channels for fast-moving debris. If you are driving, be alert for collapsed pavement, mud, and fallen rocks. Never attempt to cross a landslide path, whether on foot or in a vehicle.

7. Shelter in Place if Evacuation is Impossible

If evacuation is not possible, find shelter indoors in the safest part of the building, such as the upper floors. Avoid basements or lower floors that could be inundated with debris. Take cover under a sturdy table or desk to protect yourself from falling debris and stay put until the landslide has stopped.

8. Avoid River Valleys and Canyons

Landslides can cause rivers and streams to overflow, leading to flash floods. Avoid valleys and canyon bottoms, which are more susceptible to debris flows and flooding. These areas can be particularly dangerous during and after heavy rainfall. If you live near a river or stream, be prepared to move to higher ground quickly.

9. Stay Informed and Cautious After a Landslide

After the landslide, follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services. They will provide information on safe areas and when it is safe to return home. Be aware of secondary hazards, as landslides can trigger additional hazards such as flooding or further landslides. Stay alert and cautious even after the initial event.

10. Inspect Your Property for Damage

Carefully inspect your property for structural damage before entering. Look for cracks in the foundation, walls, and roof. Avoid entering buildings that appear unsafe. Check for utility hazards such as downed power lines and broken gas lines. Report any issues to the authorities and wait for professionals to handle them.

11. Assist Neighbors and Seek Help

Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need special assistance such as the elderly, disabled, or young children. Offer help and share resources if possible. If you or someone else is injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even minor injuries can become serious without proper care. Follow local health and safety guidelines to ensure everyone's well-being.

12. Document the Damage

Take photographs of the damage to your property for insurance claims. Keep a detailed record of the damage and any repairs needed. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and provide them with the documentation. Follow their instructions for filing a claim and keep copies of all correspondence and paperwork.

13. Learn from the Experience

Reflect on the experience and identify areas for improvement in your emergency preparedness plan. Attend community meetings and workshops to stay informed about updated safety practices and procedures. Share your experience and knowledge with others to help them prepare for future landslides.
Remember to stay alert, evacuate if necessary, and follow the guidance of local authorities to ensure the best possible outcome in the event of a landslide. Your preparedness and quick actions can make a critical difference in your safety and the safety of your loved ones.