The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, scheduled to be held on August 10, has been postponed in the wake of the Wayanad landslide disaster. The race is now planned for September 7. Initially, there was a proposal to cancel all celebrations and hold only the race on August 10. During a special meeting presided over by Collector Alex Varghese, it was suggested to cancel the celebrations, including the cultural procession, and proceed with the competition on the original date. However, there was also a view that the boat race should be rescheduled. The Collector stated that the details of the discussion would be brought to the government's attention for making a final decision.
So far, 318 people have lost their lives and 298 people are still missing after the landslide in Wayanad's Meppadi Panchayat, which occurred early morning on Tuesday. US President Joe Biden also expressed condolences on the Wayanad landslides on Friday, saying, "Jill and I extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by the deadly landslides in the state of Kerala in India. Our prayers are with the victims of this tragic event, and we mourn with the families who have lost loved ones." He also said they commend the bravery of those who supported the recovery effort.
In 2023, 72 boats participated in the race including 19 snake boats (chundan vallams). The categories were Iruttukuthi B Grade, Iruttu Kuthi A Grade, Veppu A and B grade, Churulan, Thekkanodi Thara and Thekkanodi Kettu boats. The event used modern starting and photo-finish systems to determine winners. NTBR was also a 'green fest' last year, with around 135 personnel of Haritha Karma Sena deployed at various points to prevent plastics and other non-biodegradable materials from polluting the venue.
