Raigad: Dozens still missing as India landslide search called off
In the aftermath of a devastating landslide in Irshalwadi village, located in Raigad district, twenty-seven bodies have been discovered, while 57 individuals are still reported as missing. The difficult terrain and relentless heavy rainfall have posed significant challenges for rescue operations.
A state minister stated that the decision to address the situation was made after consulting with the Raigad administration and other relevant authorities. It’s important to note that the situation may evolve further, and it is advised to stay updated with the latest information from reliable news sources.
On Wednesday night, a devastating landslide occurred, causing the destruction of numerous homes in Irshalwadi village. The village is situated halfway up the slope of a steep mountain named Irshalgad.
This mountain range is part of the Deccan Traps, which is a volcanic province formed over 60 million years ago, according to Janhavee Moole from BBC Marathi.
The area’s challenging terrain and hazardous conditions make it hard to access, even for experienced trekkers. The geographical difficulty and risks involved have significantly hindered rescue and relief efforts following the landslide.
The rescue operations faced numerous complications primarily due to the challenging terrain, made even more treacherous by the continuous rain, resulting in slippery conditions. Additionally, the ongoing mudfall in the area added to the difficulties faced by the rescue teams.
Each morning, the rescuers had to undertake a two-hour climb to reach the affected location. However, by the second day, both the rescue teams and local residents realized the immense difficulty in sustaining the operation for an extended period.
Authorities reported that a significant portion of the mud had to be cleared manually since the use of heavy machinery like JCBs was hindered by the tough terrain, making it challenging for them to reach the disaster site. This manual clearing process further complicated and prolonged the rescue efforts.
Over the past few weeks, various states in India have been grappling with heavy rainfall, leading to devastating floods and landslides in several regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted the likelihood of further rains in specific areas of Maharashtra state, including Raigad district.
As a precautionary measure, authorities have taken the decision to close schools in Raigad district on Monday to ensure the safety and well-being of students and residents in the affected region. The situation remains challenging, and it is essential for people to stay vigilant and follow updates from local authorities and weather agencies to stay safe during this period of increased rainfall and potential hazards.
According to official government data, Irshalwadi village had a total of 43 houses, and it was home to 228 residents. Fortunately, around 144 individuals have been either rescued or were not present in the village during the time of the disaster.
However, the situation is dire, as locals and rescue personnel have reported that only around four to five houses remain standing in the village after the landslide. The scale of destruction is significant, and many homes have been tragically affected.
The residents of Irshalwadi village belonged to an indigenous tribe, and their livelihood primarily revolved around foraging in the forest and engaging in some agricultural activities. The disaster has had a devastating impact on their community, and the loss of lives and property has undoubtedly caused immense grief and hardship for the survivors and their families.
The heartbreaking impact of the landslide on Irshalwadi village has deeply affected mountaineers who frequently climbed Irshalgad mountain and had a close connection with the village and its residents.
Santosh Dagade, an experienced mountaineer who has even conquered Mount Everest, recalled his interactions with the villagers during his treks up Irshalgad. He fondly remembers being welcomed by the villagers with tea and snacks. However, upon learning about the tragic landslide, he rushed to the scene to offer his assistance.
To his utter disbelief, Dagade discovered that, except for a few houses, the entire village had been buried under the debris. The devastation was immense, leaving him in shock and disbelief. He searched for familiar houses, but the scene was filled with despair and devastation all around.
The emotional impact of witnessing such a catastrophe on a place that held cherished memories and connections for the mountaineers is immeasurable, and it reflects the profound loss experienced by the villagers and the broader community. The rescue and relief efforts in such situations are vital to providing support and assistance to the affected residents during this difficult time.
The survivors of the landslide in Irshalwadi village are currently taking refuge in temporary shelters located nearby. Their lives have been upended by the tragedy, and they are facing immense challenges in the aftermath of the disaster.
A woman who miraculously survived the landslide shared her harrowing experience with BBC Marathi. She revealed that she was asleep when the landslide struck, and it was her mother’s screams that woke her and her family up. When they rushed outside, they were met with a devastating sight – the entire village was engulfed in mud, and there was no one else around.
The landslide not only destroyed their homes but also buried all their possessions and important documents under the thick layer of mud. In the face of such a catastrophic loss, the survivors are grappling with the daunting question of what to do next. Rebuilding their lives and figuring out how to move forward after losing everything they had is an overwhelming and difficult task.
The disaster has left the survivors in a state of shock, grief, and uncertainty. Their immediate needs for shelter, food, and other essentials are paramount, and they will require ongoing support and assistance from humanitarian organizations and the government to begin the process of recovery and rehabilitation.
