In the wake of the catastrophic landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, which has claimed the lives of more than 300 people and left many others missing, a glimmer of hope emerged with the rescue of six children. The successful operation, conducted by Kerala Forest officials, took place in a remote tribal settlement and lasted for eight hours.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised the heroic efforts of the forest officials, stating, “This spirit of our forest officials reminds us that Kerala’s resilience continues to shine even in the worst of times. We will rebuild together and emerge stronger.”
The rescue mission was led by a four-member team headed by Kalpetta Range Forest Officer K. Hashis. On Thursday, the team navigated treacherous terrain inside the forest to reach a tribal family trapped in a cave on a hilltop. The family, from the Paniya community, was stranded with a deep gorge looming above them. The arduous journey took over four-and-a-half hours to complete.
Hashis reported that he initially encountered the mother and her four-year-old child wandering near the forest area. Upon further investigation, he discovered that her three other children and their father were trapped in the cave without food due to the landslides and heavy rains.
According to Hashis, the family typically avoids contact with outsiders and relies on forest produce for sustenance. However, the recent disaster had cut off their access to food. The rescue team faced numerous challenges, including slippery and steep rocks, and had to use ropes tied to trees and rocks to climb the hazardous terrain.
“The children were exhausted, and we provided them with the food and drinks we had carried,” Hashis said. “After much persuasion, their father agreed to come with us. We secured the children to our bodies and began the difficult journey back.”
The operation underscores the dedication and bravery of Kerala’s forest officials amidst the ongoing crisis in Wayanad.
