To enhance rescue operations in the landslide-hit areas of Wayanad, Indian Army personnel constructed a 120-foot-long Bailey bridge within 31 hours, connecting the severely affected regions of Mundakkai and Chooralmala.
The bridge, with a weight capacity of 24 tons, began construction on the evening of July 31 and was completed the following day. The Indian Army tested its structural integrity with an ambulance and a military truck.
“In a remarkable feat of engineering and professional skills, the Indian Army’s Engineer Task Force swiftly constructed the Bailey Bridge over the Iruvanipzha River at Chooralmala, significantly accelerating rescue operations in Wayanad,” the Southern Command stated on X. To expedite the rescue efforts, ten specialized teams equipped with rescue apparatus, dog squads, and heavy earth-moving equipment commenced combing operations early morning through six designated zones: Punchirimattom, Mundakkai, School area, Chooralmala town, Village area, and Downstream.
The massive landslides struck Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad early on July 30, causing extensive destruction and claiming about 290 lives. The possibility of finding more survivors remains extremely low.
The 120-foot-long Bailey bridge was constructed at the same location where a 100-foot-long concrete bridge was washed away in the landslides. Due to its length, the bridge was built with a pier in the middle of the river. Materials for the bridge were transported to Kannur by two aircraft from Delhi and Bengaluru, then taken to Wayanad by truck.
On August 1, Army soldiers constructed the bridge while rescuers searched through mud and debris for survivors. Onmanorama reported that 140 personnel from Madras Engineer Group began construction at 9 am on July 31.
Major General Mathew, leading the operation, said 19 steel panels were used, supported by a single pier. Adverse weather and limited space posed challenges, but the team persevered, working through the night with minimal breaks. The bridge was ready by 6 pm on August 1, 31 hours after construction began.
