Wayanad Landslides: Anand Mahindra hails Indian 'Wonder Woman' for rebuilding key bridge in record time

A powerful image of Major Sita Ashok Shelke, the sole female officer in her unit, has captured the admiration of many. The photo, showing her standing proudly on the newly-constructed Bailey Bridge in Chooralmala village, Wayanad, Kerala, has gone viral on social media, earning the praise of many including industrialist Anand Mahindra.

The bridge, crucial for the region affected by recent landslides, was built by the Indian Army's Madras Engineering Group (MEG) in an impressive 31 hours. Major Shelke, hailing from Gadilgaon Village, Ahmed Nagar in Maharashtra, played a pivotal role in this accomplishment. Her leadership and relentless effort alongside her 70-member team overcame significant challenges, including massive debris and a rapidly flowing river.

Anand Mahindra took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Major Shelke, referring to her as the "Wonder Woman of Wayanad." He tweeted, “There is no need for DC Super Heroes. We have them in real life out here.” The post resonated with many, reflecting widespread admiration for Major Shelke’s bravery and the Indian Army's commitment to the mission.



In a statement to PTI, Major Shelke expressed her pride, saying, “I don’t consider myself the only woman here; I am a soldier. I am here as a representative of the Indian Army and take immense pride in being a part of this launching team.” She also extended her gratitude to local authorities, state officials, and the community for their support during the bridge’s construction.

Wayanad Landslides: Increased Police Patrols Address Theft Concerns

The recent landslides in Wayanad have left many homes abandoned, leading to reports of thefts from these properties. Residents who were displaced by the natural disaster have voiced their concerns about looting, prompting the administration to enhance police patrols during the night.

The displaced individuals have reported that thieves are targeting their vacant homes and even their rooms in temporary accommodations, stealing personal belongings such as clothes. This rise in theft has led to increased police presence in the affected areas, including Chooralmala and Mundakkai.

Authorities have assured the public that they are taking the situation seriously, with heightened surveillance aimed at deterring and addressing theft. The community's safety remains a top priority as the region continues to recover from the devastation caused by the landslides.