The search for five individuals missing after a debris slip at under-construction Wayanad tunnel road project in Kalladi,near Meppadi, entered its second day on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, without any significant progress. incident, which occurred on Tuesday, July 7,resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and left ten others injured.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan addressed the media following a review meeting in Kalpetta, emphasizing that the primary focus remains on locating the missing persons. "The search in Zone I and Zone II has been completed,but the missing people could not be located . The search operation has now been extended to Zone III and will continue through the night. It is expected to be completed by Thursday morning. If required,a search will also be carried out in the river on Thursday morning," he stated .
Among injured,three individuals have been admitted to the intensive care unit of a private hospital, with two in serious condition. Four others are hospitalized, while three have been discharged. In response to the tragedy,Satheesan announced ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased and assured that government would cover the medical expenses for the injured.
The police have initiated investigation into the incident,which has prompted the evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations. The Chief Minister indicated that further evacuations might occur if necessary.
A 60-member team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), supported by police, Fire and Rescue Services personnel,and local volunteers,is leading the rescue efforts . Heavy machinery is being utilized to clear the substantial debris,while cadaver dogs have been deployed to assist in locating those believed to be trapped. However,adverse weather conditions,including heavy rain,have hindered operation,complicating the removal of debris and posing challenges for rescuers.
Satheesan confirmed that the bodies of the three victims had been embalmed and would be transported to their respective hometowns. The body of one victim, identified as Anmol from Jharkhand, has already been sent back, flown to Ranchi on an IndiGo flight. The remaining bodies will also be repatriated as flight availability permits.
In light of a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department for extremely heavy rainfall in the Wayanad region, District Collector D.R. Meghashree declared a holiday for all educational institutions in the district on Thursday,July 9, 2026. This closure includes anganwadis,religious education classes,tuition centers, special classes,and professional colleges,although residential schools and colleges will remain open.
