At least 24 individuals have tragically lost their lives, with many more feared trapped, as devastating landslides struck the southern Indian state of Kerala due to heavy rainfall. The incidents occurred in the Wayanad district during the early hours of Tuesday.
Rescue operations are currently underway but are being severely hampered by the ongoing heavy rains and the destruction of a vital bridge. Local officials indicate that a full assessment of the damage will take several hours.
Hospital sources confirm that at least 66 people have sustained injuries, with many hospital staff among those missing from the landslide. Wayanad, part of the Western Ghats mountain range, is known for its susceptibility to landslides during the monsoon season.
The landslides have affected multiple areas within the district, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Choorallmala, and Kunhome. The collapse of the bridge connecting Choorallmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has isolated these regions and complicated access for rescue teams attempting to reach trapped families.
Disaster relief teams from both state and national government are actively conducting rescue missions, with local citizens also participating in the efforts. The army and air force have been requested to assist in airlifting trapped individuals and to facilitate the construction of a temporary bridge.
Residents throughout Wayanad and neighboring areas remain on high alert as predictions of continued heavy rainfall persist. In response to the emergency, schools and colleges have been closed across 10 of the state’s 14 districts.
This area is no stranger to such tragedies; in 2019, a landslide in Puthumala, located approximately 10 kilometers from the current sites of concern, resulted in 17 deaths.
The Prime Minister has communicated with the Chief Minister of Kerala, extending assurance of federal support for ongoing relief efforts. Compensation measures have also been announced, with families of victims set to receive 200,000 rupees (approximately $2,388; £1,857), while those injured will receive 50,000 rupees.
