Landslides triggered by heavy rains in Kerala, India have claimed the lives of at least 63 people, with dozens more trapped under debris. The disaster has primarily affected the Wayanad district and neighboring areas, known for their lush landscapes but now grappling with nature’s fury.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach those still trapped, battling against ongoing heavy rains that continue to hamper efforts. The death toll is feared to rise as many remote areas remain inaccessible due to damaged roads and continued geological instability.
The landslides, which occurred following days of incessant rainfall, have devastated several communities in the region. Eyewitnesses report entire hillsides collapsing, burying homes and people within minutes. The scale of the disaster has overwhelmed local resources, prompting a national response.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation and has assured all possible assistance from the federal government. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Modi announced compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,388; £1,857) for the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for the injured.
The tragedy has sparked discussions in India’s parliament, with Vice-President Jagdeep Singh Dhankar describing it as a “very painful situation.” The disaster brings back harrowing memories of a 2019 landslide in nearby Puthumala that claimed 17 lives, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to such calamities.
In response to the crisis, authorities have closed schools and colleges in 10 of Kerala’s 14 districts. This measure, initially taken as a precaution against forecasted heavy rains, now serves to facilitate rescue and relief operations.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has mobilized all available resources for rescue and relief efforts. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed to the affected areas, working alongside local police and fire services to locate and rescue survivors.
The ongoing heavy rains continue to pose a significant threat, with meteorologists warning of the potential for further landslides and flooding. Residents in high-risk areas are being urged to evacuate to safer locations.
