Rahul Gandhi urges Centre to declare Wayanad landslides 'national disaster'
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has urged the central government to declare the recent landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, a national disaster. He also called for enhanced compensation for those affected by the calamity. During his address in the Lok Sabha's Zero Hour, Gandhi emphasized the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation package for the district and support for impacted communities.
Gandhi shares first-hand experience from Wayanad visit
Gandhi recently visited landslide-affected areas in Wayanad with his sister and senior Congress leader, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Describing the scene, he said, "Almost 2km of the hill has just collapsed and almost a river of stones, a river of mud has come down." He reported over 200 deaths and many missing persons, estimating that the final death toll could surpass 400.
Gandhi praises relief efforts
While urging for more aid, Gandhi also appreciated the relief and rescue operations conducted by the Centre, Kerala government, and various departments. He thanked states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana for their assistance. Highlighting the role of the private sector, he also mentioned Kochi-based software firm Faircode Infotech's contribution in streamlining relief efforts by creating an inventory management system at a relief center in Wayanad.
