In the wake of a catastrophic landslide that has struck Kerala’s Wayanad district, resulting in the death of at least 160 people and widespread devastation, residents and businesses from the UAE have come together to provide critical support.
The disaster, which unfolded on Tuesday, has obliterated homes, schools, and infrastructure, marking the worst calamity to hit the state since the 2018 floods that claimed over 400 lives.
Community Response
The landslide has left hundreds displaced and has been exacerbated by the collapse of the sole bridge connecting the village of Chooralmala to the rest of Wayanad. Efforts to construct a temporary bridge are currently underway, but the road to recovery remains arduous.
Among those directly impacted by the tragedy is Shabna Ibrahim, a Dubai resident originally from Wayanad. Ibrahim reported that her entire family has been deeply involved in relief operations.
“My brother and his wife are Ayurveda doctors who have joined the medical team in rescue operations,” Ibrahim said. “They are involved in verifying dead bodies and treating the injured. My parents have also opened the doors of our house to anyone who has been displaced.”
Shajahan Kuttiyath, another Wayanad native residing in the UAE, has faced personal tragedy, losing nearly 100 family members in the landslide. Kuttiyath, along with a group of friends, is spearheading relief efforts.
“People there have to start from scratch and will need a lot of help,” he said. “I am part of a group here in the UAE who helped out during the 2018 floods. We are working with associations in Wayanad to see what people need and will assist accordingly.”
UAE-Based Business Contributions
The UAE’s philanthropic spirit has been on full display, with several prominent businessmen and organizations stepping up to provide substantial financial support.
MA Yusuff Ali, Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group, and B. Ravi Pillai, Chairman of the RP Group, have each donated approximately Dh2 million to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund. Their contributions are aimed at bolstering immediate relief efforts and aiding in the rebuilding process.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman of VPS Healthcare, has offered to deploy the expertise of their subsidiary, Prometheus Medical International, to assist in rescue operations.
In a letter to the Kerala Chief Minister, Dr. Vayalil stated, “We are ready to deploy our team to the affected area as soon as possible and are flexible to accommodate your specific needs and requirements.”
Prometheus Medical International is known for its specialized mountain rescue teams, which include emergency medical professionals and nurses. The VPS Healthcare group is currently awaiting instructions from the Kerala government to mobilize their resources.
Aster DM Healthcare’s Involvement
Aster DM Healthcare has also been actively involved in relief efforts. The group’s medical college, Dr. Moopens Medical College (formerly DM Wayanad Institute of Medical Sciences), is providing critical medical care in coordination with government hospitals and Public Health Centres.
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, stated, “Apart from our medical and non-medical staff on ground, our Aster volunteers have mobilized a team and a mobile medical unit to the disaster-stricken areas to attend to the wounded.”
He added, “The team is supplying crucial resources — such as water, food, and other essential provisions — to support the National Disaster Response Force in their phenomenal and tireless efforts.”
Aster DM Healthcare has contributed approximately Dh500,000 to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and Dh1 million towards rebuilding homes for those displaced by the disaster. Dr. Moopen also noted that some Aster employees have been affected by the landslide and are currently missing.
“We remain resolute in our efforts to locate and bring all of them home safely,” he said. “To those affected employees, Aster has extended full support by providing relief materials, first aid, and medical services.”
Broader Impact and Challenges
The landslide’s impact on Wayanad has been profound, with significant challenges in mobilizing relief efforts due to the extensive damage to infrastructure.
The collapse of the bridge to Chooralmala has particularly hampered rescue operations, highlighting the urgent need for temporary solutions and coordinated support from various agencies.
The UAE’s response underscores a broader pattern of international solidarity in the face of natural disasters. The contributions from individuals and businesses are vital in addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts.
As the situation evolves, the continued support from the global community will play a crucial role in helping the people of Wayanad rebuild their lives and communities.
Looking Ahead
The scale of the disaster in Kerala necessitates a multifaceted response involving both immediate relief and long-term recovery strategies.
As UAE-based individuals and organizations continue to contribute, the collective effort provides hope and tangible support for those affected by this tragic event.
The coordination between international donors, local authorities, and relief organizations will be key in managing the crisis and ensuring that resources are effectively utilized.
The resilience and generosity displayed by the UAE community are pivotal in addressing the immediate needs of the victims and laying the groundwork for recovery in the months to come.
As the situation in Wayanad develops, ongoing support and collaboration will be essential in navigating the challenges ahead and rebuilding the lives and infrastructure that have been so severely impacted by this devastating landslide.