The tragic toll from the devastating landslides in Kerala has now surpassed 158 fatalities, with authorities confirming that 187 individuals remain unaccounted for.
Rescue efforts, which had temporarily ceased late Tuesday, resumed on Wednesday morning in response to the crisis.
This catastrophic landslide marks the worst disaster in Kerala since the 2018 floods, which resulted in over 400 casualties.
In a show of respect for the victims, the Indian flag has been lowered to half-mast at government buildings as the state observes two days of official mourning.
The landslides occurred in Wayanad district, particularly affecting the Mundakkai and Chooralmala areas. Chief Minister Vijayan described the situation as one that “wiped out an entire area.”
With heavy rain predicted to continue, the district and neighboring regions are on alert. Schools and colleges have been closed in 12 out of the state’s 14 districts.
Joint rescue efforts involve the army, navy, air force, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), along with police and firefighting units.
Over 3,000 individuals have been rescued and relocated to 45 relief camps in the area.
Air force helicopters were deployed on Tuesday evening for search and rescue operations, focusing on those stranded in Mundakkai, which is now cut off due to floodwaters.
Reports indicate a small team of rescuers successfully crossed the river to aid trapped individuals.
According to NDRF Commander Akhilesh Kumar, operations had rescued 70 people by 10 PM but were halted due to severe weather conditions.
Rescue efforts face significant challenges from the heavy rains impacting the region.
In Chooralmala, army personnel utilized ropes to navigate the swollen river in order to assist in rescue operations.
Plans are underway to construct a temporary bridge across the river to reach additional stranded residents.
The landslides struck around 2:00 AM local time, in an area surrounded by tea and cardamom plantations.
Chief Minister Vijayan noted that the region is not traditionally known for landslides, leading to a surprise for sleeping villagers and resulting in significant casualties.
Among those still missing are local plantation workers and migrant laborers residing in the area.
Rescue workers are diligently searching through the rubble and collapsed structures for potential survivors.
Eyewitness accounts describe seeing victims in various positions within their homes, tragically indicating the severity of the disaster.
Rahul Gandhi, a prominent opposition leader and former MP from Wayanad, announced the cancellation of his visit to the affected area due to warnings of “incessant rains and adverse weather conditions” from authorities.
His party raised the issue of the disaster in parliament on Tuesday, highlighting the urgent need for assistance and support in the wake of this tragedy.
