Search and rescue operations are continuing in Keralas Wayanad district after the devastating landslide that struck the area on July 7. Rescue teams have deployed sniffer dogs, earth-moving machinery, and other specialised equipment to locate missing people trapped beneath the debris. Officials confirmed that the death toll has risen to six, while emergency personnel continue working under difficult conditions to search the affected area and clear massive amounts of mud and rubble. Heavy machinery is being used alongside rescue teams to improve access to the disaster site and speed up recovery efforts.

Amid the ongoing rescue operation, Kerala Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday criticised the state governments handling of the disaster, alleging poor coordination among ministers and accusing the administration of presenting misleading information regarding environmental clearances linked to the proposed tunnel road project. After visiting the landslide site, hospitals, and relief camps, Vijayan said he continued to support the governments efforts during the crisis and welcomed the Chief Ministers decision to order an investigation. However, he questioned the governments statements on environmental issues surrounding the project.

He maintained that the facts concerning environmental approvals for the tunnel road should not be misrepresented, adding that the Chief Ministers comments during a recent press briefing did not accurately reflect the situation. Vijayan also alleged that different ministers were issuing conflicting statements and attempting to shift responsibility instead of presenting a coordinated response to the tragedy.

Rescue teams remain focused on locating those still missing as recovery efforts continue across the landslide-hit area. The mortal remains of Anmol Dodrai, a young worker from Jharkhands Khunti district who lost his life in the landslide, were brought to Ranchi airport on Thursday before being taken to his native village in Torpa block for final rites.

Anmol had travelled to Kerala around five months ago in search of employment to help support his family. His sister, Premlata Dodrai, spoke about the familys grief after learning of the tragic incident. According to officials, the landslide occurred at approximately 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday near the tunnel construction site at Kalladi in Meppadi Grama Panchayat. The collapse buried a large section of the worksite under an estimated 7 to 10 feet of debris, triggering an extensive rescue operation that is still underway.

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