Devastating Landslides in Kerala's Wayanad: Scores Dead and Many Feared Trapped

A series of massive landslides triggered by heavy rains in Kerala's Wayanad district left at least 45 people dead. Rescue efforts, which include the Indian Army, are ongoing as many are feared trapped under the debris. The situation remains critical with widespread destruction and interrupted communication lines.

Heavy rains triggered a series of massive landslides in the hilly areas of Kerala's Wayanad district early on Tuesday, leaving at least 45 persons dead and sparking apprehensions of a possible increase in fatalities due to many people feared trapped under the debris.

Calamity struck in the early hours of Tuesday, catching the sleeping victims off-guard. Frantic calls for help were made and the rescue personnel were racing against time to pull out survivors.

Rescue teams are working tirelessly to evacuate those stranded, with the Indian Army joining the efforts. Besides the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the state government has also deployed disaster response teams from the police and the fire force to affected areas.

According to the district collector Meghasree D R, the latest toll stood at 45. In connection with the landslide in Chooralmala she confirmed that 36 deaths have been reported. Additionally, nine bodies swept away by the Chaliyar River were recovered in Malappuram.

The bodies of the deceased are being taken to various hospital morgues for identification and autopsy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the incident and said he spoke to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and assured all possible help from the Centre to the state.

The landslides left a trail of destruction, with several houses destroyed, water bodies swollen, and trees uprooted, hampering rescue operations.