At least 63 people have died as a result of the catastrophic landslides in Kerala caused by heavy rains, and many more are thought to be trapped. The Wayanad district, which is notorious for being susceptible to natural catastrophes during the monsoon season, was hit by multiple mountainous areas that were struck by landslides early on Tuesday morning. Rescue efforts have become more difficult due to the continuous heavy rains and the collapse of a vital bridge.
It may take several hours to determine the complete scope of the damage, according to State Minister AK Saseendran. Over 200 army personnel have been deployed to support local security authorities in search and rescue efforts, and rescue operations are currently ongoing with their assistance. About 250 people have been saved and placed in makeshift camps thus far, while at least 100 injured people are being treated in nearby hospitals. Apart from the 36 confirmed deaths in Wayanad, nine more remains have been found in the Chaliyar river, which runs into the nearby district of Malappuram.
The landslides have affected several areas within Wayanad, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome. Social media has shown dramatic images of muddy water sweeping through streets and forested areas, damaging homes and leaving people stranded. The collapse of a bridge connecting Chooralmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has further isolated these areas, making rescue operations more difficult. Locals and disaster relief teams are using ropes to pull victims from the debris while airlifting efforts are being coordinated by the army and air force.
Residents have reported harrowing scenes of people trapped and calling for help amidst the debris. The situation has prompted alerts in Wayanad and neighboring districts due to forecasts of continued heavy rains. Schools and colleges have been closed in 10 of the 14 districts as a precaution. The disaster has drawn national attention, with Vice-President Jagdeep Singh Dhankar describing it as a "very painful situation" in parliament.
Speaker with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered federal support for relief efforts as a sign of his empathy with the victims. Modi also declared a compensation of 50,000 rupees for those injured and 200,000 rupees ($2,388; £1,857) for the families of the deceased.
