Massive landslides triggered by heavy rains in the southern Indian state of Kerala have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 24 lives, with dozens more feared trapped under debris. The landslides struck hilly areas in Wayanad district early on Tuesday, causing widespread devastation.
Rescue operations are currently underway, but are being hampered by the relentless downpour and the collapse of a crucial bridge in the region. State minister AK Saseendran expressed the challenges faced by rescue teams, stating, “We will be able to assess the extent of the damage only after a few hours.”
Local hospitals are currently treating 66 injured individuals, with reports indicating that hospital staff are among those missing in the aftermath of the landslides. Wayanad, a hilly district nestled in the Western Ghats mountain range, is known to be susceptible to landslides during the monsoon season.
Several areas in the district, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Choorallmala, and Kunhome, have been severely impacted by the landslides. The collapse of a bridge connecting Choorallmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has further complicated rescue efforts, isolating affected areas and hindering access for rescue personnel.
State and national disaster relief teams, along with local volunteers, are working tirelessly to rescue trapped individuals. The army and air force have been mobilized to airlift families in distress and to establish a temporary bridge to facilitate rescue operations.
With heavy rains forecasted in Wayanad and neighboring regions, authorities have issued alerts and closed schools and colleges in 10 out of 14 districts in the state. This tragic incident comes after a similar landslide in 2019 claimed 17 lives in Puthumala, just 10km away from the current disaster zone.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of the federal government’s support in relief efforts. He announced compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,388; £1,857) for the families of the victims and 50,000 rupees for the injured. The nation stands in solidarity with the affected communities as they navigate this challenging time.
