Written By Lisa Murimi
In the early hours of Tuesday, heavy rains triggered devastating landslides in the hilly regions of Wayanad district, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 45 lives.
Dozens more are feared trapped as rescue operations face significant challenges due to ongoing heavy rains and the collapse of a critical bridge.
State Minister AK Saseendran told BBC Hindi, “We will be able to assess the extent of the damage only after a few hours.”
Meanwhile, State Health Minister Veena George reported that local hospitals are treating at least 70 injured individuals, with 101 people rescued so far.
The landslides severely impacted areas such as Mundakkai, Attamala, Chooralmala, and Kunhome. Social media videos depict muddy water washing through streets and forests, destroying homes and stranding residents and vehicles.
A bridge collapse between Chooralmala, Mundakkai, and Attamala has further complicated rescue efforts.
Local resident Rashid Padikkalparamban told Reuters that multiple landslides struck around midnight, demolishing the bridge.
District Collector DR Meghasree confirmed that 36 deaths occurred in Wayanad, while nine bodies floated into Malappuram district via the Chaliyar river.
State and national disaster relief teams, alongside army personnel, are conducting rescue operations.
Mr. Saseendran indicated that the army and air force have been asked to airlift trapped families and construct a temporary bridge.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured federal support for relief efforts and announced compensation for the victims’ families and the injured. Schools and colleges remain closed in ten districts as heavy rains continue to threaten the region.
