Kerala Landslides Claim 89 Lives, Rescue Efforts Hampered by Heavy Rain

In a devastating natural disaster, at least 89 people have lost their lives and dozens remain trapped after heavy rains triggered massive landslides in the Wayanad district of Kerala, southern India. The landslides, which struck the hilly areas in the early hours of Tuesday, have left the region in a state of emergency as rescue operations continue amid challenging conditions.

Despite the ongoing efforts, heavy rains and the collapse of a critical bridge have severely hampered rescue operations. “The situation continues to remain very grave. The casualties may go up,” said V Venu, Kerala’s top civil servant, emphasizing the urgency and severity of the situation.

This disaster marks the worst to hit Kerala since the deadly floods of 2018, which claimed over 400 lives. More than 200 army personnel have been dispatched to assist local security forces in the search and rescue operations. So far, around 250 people have been rescued and relocated to relief camps, while local hospitals are treating at least 129 injured individuals.

In Wayanad alone, 65 confirmed deaths have been reported, with an additional 16 bodies recovered from the Chaliyar River, which flows into the neighboring Malappuram district. Some body parts have also been discovered, indicating the potential for more casualties.

Wayanad, a hilly region within the Western Ghats mountain range, is particularly vulnerable to landslides during the monsoon season. The collapse of a bridge connecting Chooralmala to Mundakkai and Attamala has isolated these areas, complicating efforts to reach trapped families and provide aid.