Rescue workers have initiated a search for individuals trapped under debris early Wednesday, following severe landslides that wreaked havoc in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The disaster, triggered by heavy rains, has resulted in at least 151 fatalities and left many others missing.
The torrential rain caused hillsides to collapse, unleashing torrents of mud, water, and boulders, marking the worst disaster in the region since the deadly floods of 2018. The landslides struck early Tuesday morning, catching most of the 350 families living in the area—surrounded by tea and cardamom estates—completely off guard.
According to P.M. Manoj, a spokesman for the state chief minister, the current toll stands at 151 dead with 187 still unaccounted for. Television footage has revealed widespread destruction, including damaged houses and uprooted trees, while rescuers have been seen navigating muddy streams with the aid of ropes.
In response to the devastation, the government is exploring the construction of a portable, pre-fabricated Bailey bridge to reconnect the affected region, as the main bridge to the nearby town of Chooralmala has been destroyed, reported K. Rajan, the state revenue minister.
After a day of relentless rainfall that complicated rescue efforts, the weather department anticipates some relief on Wednesday, though rain is expected to persist throughout the day.
