In the wake of a devastating landslide that struck Maharashtra’s Khalapur in Raigad district, the village of Nambrachiwadi is now grappling with grief and rescue efforts. The landslide occurred late on Wednesday, burying the village of Irshalgarh wadi under a deluge of boulders and debris. Among the survivors, 45-year-old Durga Pardi and her 23-year-old son Mohan recount the harrowing experience of the night that cost them their 19-year-old son Sudam.
As the family slept, a thunderous crash echoed through the darkness, shattering their peaceful slumber. With no electricity to illuminate the chaos, they struggled to comprehend the horror unfolding around them. Massive boulders descended upon their home, prompting them to flee for their lives. Tragically, Sudam could not escape in time, and he was trapped under the rubble. Despite their desperate efforts, the family was unable to rescue him.
Swapnil Sontakke, a local from Chauk village, and other courageous youths were quick to respond to the disaster upon hearing about the landslide. Risking their own safety amid heavy rainfall, they trekked uphill to reach Irshalgarh wadi and began rescue operations. The fire brigade personnel and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams joined their efforts later, successfully rescuing more than 75 people. However, the death toll stands at ten, with Sudam still missing. The challenging terrain and lack of accessible roads have impeded rescue operations, exacerbating the difficulties faced by the rescue teams.
Nambrachiwadi, situated between Irshalgarh and Chouk village at the foothills, has become the focal point for the rescue efforts, with fire teams from Thane, Navi Mumbai, and other officials gathering there to coordinate their operations. Maharashtra’s chief minister, Eknath Shinde, personally visited Nambrachiwadi to assess the situation and expressed his concerns about the adverse weather conditions affecting the rescue mission. In response to the tragedy, the chief minister announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased.
State tourism minister Girish Mahajan, industries minister Uday Samant, and public works minister Dada Bhuse also made their way to the landslide site to oversee the rescue efforts and extend their support. The district administration has swiftly mobilized rescue teams from nearby regions, including Alibaug, Khopoli, Karjat, Lonavala, Badlapur, Panvel, Vashi, and Mumbai, to bolster the rescue operation. As the entire region grapples with the aftermath of this natural calamity, hope and resilience remain the driving force behind the tireless efforts to save lives and provide aid to those affected.