In the wake of catastrophic landslides on July 30, the Indian Army demonstrated its strong commitment to public service by constructing a 190-ft Bailey bridge in Wayanad, Kerala. The landslides had wreaked havoc in the villages of Mundakkai and Chooralmala, leaving them isolated from the rest of the district. As rescue operations intensified, the need for a robust and reliable means of transport became crucial.

The Madras Engineering Group of the Indian Army initiated the construction of the bridge at 9:30 p.m. on July 31 and completed it by 5:30 p.m. on August 1. This swift and efficient operation ensured a vital lifeline was restored to the affected areas. The Class 24 Bailey Bridge, spanning the Iruvazhinjipuzha river, can withstand up to 24 tonnes, making it crucial for relief efforts and future transport needs.


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 A Community's Lifeline

The torrential rains triggered landslides in the early hours of July 30, catching many residents off guard. The devastating force destroyed existing infrastructure, including the previous bridge, isolating Mundakkai and Chooralmala. In the immediate aftermath, rescue workers built temporary wooden bridges to evacuate and aid stranded villagers. However, these makeshift structures were no match for the relentless rains and soon failed.
Dedicated Efforts in the Face of Adversity

Despite challenging conditions, the Indian Army, alongside the Navy, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local police, mobilized with determination to save lives and provide essential services. The rescue mission involved over 1,600 dedicated workers, demonstrating a commendable spirit of cooperation and commitment. The materials for the Bailey bridge were rapidly transported from Delhi and Bengaluru to Kannur airport, and then conveyed to Wayanad in 17 trucks, highlighting the urgency and scale of the operation.

Leadership and Coordination

Major General V.T. Mathew, General Officer Commanding of the Kerala and Karnataka Sub-Area, oversaw the construction and was the first to cross the newly built bridge in his official vehicle. This act symbolized not only the completion of the bridge but also the resilience and determination of the Indian Army. Following Major General Mathew, an Army medical unit and a military truck crossed the bridge, marking its official handover to the civil administration.

The Bridge's Significance

The newly constructed Bailey bridge not only restored connectivity but also symbolized hope for the affected communities. The Defence PRO poignantly captured this sentiment in a social media post, stating, "From #Landslide to #Lifeline. When nature knocked down a bridge, #IndianArmy swiftly constructed a more resilient one. True to form, the Army Commander fearlessly led the way across the #BaileyBridge."

As Wayanad recovers from this natural disaster, the presence of a sturdy bridge provides a foundation for rebuilding and rehabilitation. It enables the continued delivery of aid and resources to the affected areas, ensuring that the local population can begin the long process of recovery. In the face of adversity, the Indian Army's efforts in Wayanad highlight the importance of preparedness, quick response, and community support. It shows the unbreakable spirit of those dedicated to serving their nation, even in the most challenging of times.