Race Against Time: Rescuers Struggle Amidst Landslides in Kerala

Rescue workers are battling harsh conditions in Kerala’s Wayanad district after catastrophic landslides resulted in 177 confirmed deaths and nearly 200 people missing. The calamity has prompted large-scale rescue operations involving over 1,600 workers from various forces. Challenges include treacherous terrain and lack of heavy equipment. State officials and political leaders are on-site coordinating efforts and offering support.

Under severe conditions, rescuers are racing against time to locate survivors in Kerala's Wayanad district, where deadly landslides have claimed 177 lives as of Thursday. With almost 200 individuals unaccounted for, the death toll is likely to climb.

Unconfirmed reports put fatalities at 276, but official figures indicate 177 deaths, including 25 children and 70 women. Over 200 individuals have been injured, primarily in Mundakkai and Chooralmala. Rescues are hampered by treacherous terrain, destroyed infrastructure, and limited heavy machinery.

State Revenue Minister K Rajan leads the rescue operations with 1,600 personnel from various forces. Political figures, including CM Pinarayi Vijayan and Rahul Gandhi, have visited the region, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated efforts. Machinery is prioritized for navigating the challenging landscape to locate missing people efficiently.