- At least 56 people have lost their lives
- Countless others are feared trapped
- Over 250 people have been evacuated
At least 56 people have lost their lives and countless others are feared trapped after torrential rains unleashed catastrophic landslides in the southern Indian state of Kerala.
The disaster struck the hilly Wayanad district early Tuesday morning, with rescue efforts hampered by persistent downpours and the collapse of a vital bridge.
The Indian army has deployed over 200 personnel to bolster the search and rescue operation, while local hospitals are overwhelmed with at least 70 injured victims. Over 250 people have been evacuated to safety thus far.
The death toll is expected to rise as emergency responders gain access to remote areas. In addition to the 36 confirmed fatalities in Wayanad, nine bodies have been recovered from the Chaliyar river in neighboring Malappuram district.
Wayanad, situated in the Western Ghats, is a region susceptible to landslides during the monsoon season. Multiple villages, including Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome, have been severely impacted.
Heart-wrenching videos circulating on social media depict the devastating force of the landslides, with homes swept away and communities isolated. The collapse of a bridge connecting Chooralmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has compounded the challenges faced by rescue teams.
Local residents and authorities are working tirelessly to reach those trapped in the rubble. Officials have requested military and air force assistance to evacuate stranded families and restore critical infrastructure.
The full extent of the devastation is yet to be determined, but it is clear that this is a major humanitarian crisis.
