At least 54 people have been killed, and dozens more are feared trapped following a series of landslides triggered by relentless rain in Kerala, a southern state in India. The landslides struck near Meppadi in Wayanad district around 2 a.m. on Tuesday (20:30 GMT on Monday), severing access to at least four villages. Rescue efforts have been severely hampered by ongoing heavy rain. P M Manoj, press secretary to the Kerala chief minister, reported that the landslides had claimed at least 49 lives, with the death toll expected to rise further. Additionally, at least 70 people sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in district hospitals.
The Indian Army has deployed more than 200 soldiers to the affected area, and two Indian Air Force helicopters have been mobilized to assist in the rescue efforts. Police drones and a dog squad are also being utilized to aid in locating and rescuing trapped individuals. In a statement, the Indian Army expressed concern that “hundreds of people are suspected to have been trapped.” On social media, they announced that a medical team had been dispatched and efforts were underway “to rescue approximately 250 individuals likely stranded.”
Sandosh Kumar, a member of parliament representing Kerala, told the ANI news agency that some flooded areas in his district are “completely marooned,” which has made rescue operations increasingly difficult. The Hindu newspaper reported that numerous houses, vehicles, and shops have been submerged in mud and water. Chooralmala’s main bridge has also been destroyed, leaving many areas isolated. Anand Mahindra took to twitter to announce help for the paradise on earth, take a look at his heartfelt message below.
Several news publications published photographs showing torrents of brown swirling water, fallen trees, large boulders, and damaged buildings. The devastating impact of the landslides has left communities in shock and has highlighted the urgent need for efficient and rapid rescue operations amidst such natural disasters. The ongoing heavy rains continue to pose a significant challenge to rescue teams working tirelessly to save lives and provide aid to those affected.
Image Source: Twitter