Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the Congress Member of Parliament from Wayanad, paid tribute to the victims of the catastrophic landslides that struck the region two years ago. This solemn occasion marked the second anniversary of a tragedy that resulted in significant loss of life and destruction. In a message shared on X, she expressed her heartfelt remembrance of those who perished in the disaster while highlighting the resilience of communities in Chooralmala and Mundakkai.

Priyanka Gandhi’s message emphasized the ongoing commitment to support survivors in their journey towards recovery and rebuilding their lives. She recognised the bravery shown by the affected individuals and reaffirmed a pledge to stand with them in their struggles. “We will continue to support those who survived in every way we can,” she stated, acknowledging the deep emotional wounds that remain among the survivors.

The tribute not only commemorated the victims but also aimed to instill a sense of hope among the affected communities, reminding them of the strength they have demonstrated in the face of adversity.

Details of the 2024 Landslide Incident

The landslides that occurred on July 30, 2024, were among the most devastating natural disasters in Keralam’s history. Triggered by relentless rainfall, these landslides obliterated numerous villages, including Chooralmala, Mundakkai, Attamala, Punchirimattom, and Vellarimala in Meppadi panchayat. The disaster resulted in the tragic loss of over 300 lives and significant destruction of infrastructure, including roads and homes.

Following the disaster, a massive rescue and relief operation was launched by the Centre, utilising the resources of various safety and rescue organisations. More than 1,200 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies were deployed to facilitate search and rescue efforts, offering immediate assistance to those who were affected.

This anniversary is particularly poignant, coming shortly after another landslide incident in Wayanad on July 7, 2026. This event occurred at a tunnel construction site in Kalladi, resulting in additional loss of life and raising concerns about safety in the region. The recent landslide claimed the lives of eight workers, further amplifying the ongoing challenges faced by local communities in the area.

Government Response and Individual Efforts

In response to the Kalladi landslide, the Kerala government announced compensation measures to support the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured. The ex gratia amount was set at Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased, while financial assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh was approved for the injured. Additionally, the government appointed an expert committee to investigate the cause of the incident, ensuring that necessary precautions and guidelines are adhered to before resuming construction work.

Priyanka Gandhi had previously visited the Kalladi site on July 25, 2026, to evaluate the situation and advocate for immediate temporary solutions to prevent further hazards. She stressed the need for swift action while awaiting the results of another inquiry to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Moreover, Gandhi criticized the Central government’s alleged political bias in disaster assistance, asserting that states like Keralam should not have to depend solely on the Centre for support. Her statements highlighted the growing frustrations over the distribution of aid and the need for more equitable solutions to address the challenges faced by states impacted by natural disasters.

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