Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kannaur at 11 am on Saturday, from where he will conduct an aerial survey of the landslide-affected areas in Kerala's Wayanad district. He was received by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

After the aerial survey, PM Modi, at around 12:15 PM, will undertake an on-ground inspection of the landslide-affected areas. He will also be briefed about the ongoing evacuation operation by the rescue teams.

PM Modi is also expected to visit a relief camp, where more than 10,000 people are currently lodged.

After these engagements, the Prime Minister will convene a review meeting to receive an in-depth briefing on the incident as well as a detailed update on the extensive relief efforts being coordinated in response to the crisis.

Earlier on Friday, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, thanked PM Modi for deciding to visit the landslide-hit Wayanad, which left more than 400 people dead.

Taking to X, Rahul Gandhi stated, "Thank you, Modi ji, for visiting Wayanad to personally take stock of the terrible tragedy. This is a good decision. I am confident that once the Prime Minister sees the extent of the devastation firsthand, he will declare it a national disaster."

PM's visit comes after several MPs from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, including Rahul Gandhi, have asked the Centre to declare the Wayanad landslides a "national disaster." This declaration will ensure the release of additional funds for relief and rehabilitation, among others.

Source: India Today