Wayanad Landslides: Mass Graves Dug as Death Toll Exceeds 300

Wayanad landslides death toll surpasses 300, with mass graves and increased cremations as authorities struggle to manage the mounting casualties.

The death toll from the devastating landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district has surpassed 300, with over 200 people still reported missing. Local authorities are resorting to mass graves and increased cremations to manage the mounting casualties.

In Muttil panchayat, about 100 men are digging 20 graves in the public cemetery to respectfully dispose of unidentified body parts recovered from the disaster sites. Asharaf, vice president of Muttil panchayat, explained that the decision was made following a late-night online meeting with officials from eight panchayats.

"We were told that the 73 body parts retrieved from the Chaliyar river are deteriorating rapidly. DNA samples have been taken from all remains during autopsies, and information about each will be stored beside the respective graves for potential future identification," Asharaf stated.

Meanwhile, at a crematorium run by Seva Bharati in Meppadi town, the number of funeral pyres has been increased from three to ten. Santhosh Kumar, an in-charge at the crematorium, reported, "On Wednesday, we conducted 21 cremations, with eight performed simultaneously. We're prepared to handle more in the coming days."

The landslides on Tuesday (July 30) devastated neighborhoods including Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Attamala. The tragedy has overwhelmed local morgues and hospitals, necessitating swift action for the dignified disposal of remains.

Local officials emphasize the importance of respecting the deceased, regardless of caste or religion. "These are our people, and we must accord them respect. It is an unimaginable tragedy," Asharaf added.

Also Read: Tharoor Calls for Ground Sensors to Predict Landslides in Kerala

As rescue operations continue, authorities are bracing for the possibility of more casualties. The scale of the disaster has shocked the community, with heart-wrenching scenes of grief unfolding at cremation sites as families bid farewell to their loved ones.

The Wayanad landslides serve as a stark reminder of the increasing vulnerability of certain regions to extreme weather events, raising questions about disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation in the area.