The recent catastrophic landslides in Wayanad have left a trail of unimaginable tragedy, as villages such as Maypad, Munda Kai, and Chooralmala are buried under debris. Abdullah Madikeri from the Humanitarian Relief Society (HRS) Karnataka State visited the disaster site on Thursday morning, witnessing firsthand the scale of devastation.
Site of Despair
At a distance of 15 kilometers from the epicenter of the disaster in Maypad, the scene was marked by the sight of ambulances racing with sirens blaring and the hurried activity of police and health department vehicles, signaling the severity of the crisis. Inside the Government Prauda School, bodies were being identified, including dismembered limbs and torsos, highlighting the horror of the tragedy.
A Community in Mourning
The disaster has not only affected residents but also displaced over 500 migrant workers from Assam and other states. The flood has claimed numerous lives, including children, women, and the elderly, leaving many families in mourning without anyone to grieve for them. The bodies, scattered and dismembered, have become orphans in need of proper burial.
A Call for Reflection
The tragedy shows how pointless sectarian and caste-based hatred is, revealing the harm it causes. The rubble, filled with broken boulders and body parts, highlights how little regard there is for human life during natural disasters. It reminds us to overcome these divisions and work towards living together in harmony.
Volunteers Step Up
Amid the chaos, volunteers from various organizations have played a crucial role. Emergency services, traffic management, and food distribution efforts have been bolstered by enthusiastic youth and volunteers from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. Local establishments and mosques have provided meals and refreshments to those affected and the rescue teams.
Personal Accounts of Survival
The disaster has affected many, including a family from Chamarajanagar district who narrowly escaped. They described how they were saved by quickly freeing their cattle and fleeing as the floodwaters surged, washing away their homes.
Heroic Sacrifices
The tale of Prashant and Prajeesh, volunteers who lost their lives in the rescue efforts, stands out. Prajeesh, who was involved in rescue operations during a previous landslide, gave his life-saving others during the recent disaster. His body was found 35 kilometers away, a testament to his bravery and ultimate sacrifice.
A Teacher’s Heartfelt Remembrance
A teacher who visited the site of the collapsed school building was overcome with emotion, reflecting on the loss of the students he once taught. His poignant recollection of teaching amidst the beauty of nature contrasts starkly with the current devastation.
Ongoing Efforts
Search teams continue to work tirelessly, scouring forests and gardens for more bodies. Despite the overwhelming scale of the disaster, the unwavering dedication of volunteers and emergency responders remains a beacon of hope in these dark times.
