Neethu Jojo, a hospital staff member and one of the initial informers of the devastating landslide that struck Chooralmala on July 30, has tragically died before rescuers could reach her. Her distress call, recorded and now viral, highlights the dire situation she and several other families faced as they sought help amid the natural disaster.
The landslide, which hit the district early in the morning, caused severe damage, with homes and vehicles swept away by the force of the water and debris. Neethu Jojo, who worked at Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, made urgent calls for help as the landslide’s impact engulfed her home.
In the recording, Jojo is heard pleading for assistance, describing the water flooding her house and the surrounding debris. “There is a landslide at Chooralmala. I live behind the school here. Can you please send someone to help us?” she asked over the phone. She reported that five to six families had sought refuge in her home, which was considered relatively safer compared to other areas.
Dr. Shanavas Palliyal, the DGM of Dr. Moopen’s Medical College, received her call and immediately alerted the authorities. An ambulance was dispatched, but it was hindered by blocked roads and uprooted trees. “Our ambulance driver and another staff member were regularly in contact with her but after the second wave of landslide, the connection was lost,” Palliyal told PTI. The Chooralmala bridge, a crucial access point, was washed away, further complicating rescue efforts.
Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Neethu and the other families were unable to escape as the landslide struck a second time. Neethu’s husband, their toddler, and his mother survived the tragedy, but Neethu, along with four other staff members from the hospital, perished in the disaster.
The side of the house where Neethu and others were trapped was destroyed, and although around three bodies were found in that area, Neethu’s body was recovered elsewhere.
Sources By Agencies
