Severe rainfall in southern India has caused multiple landslides, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 individuals. Additionally, there are concerns that many others may be trapped beneath the debris. Bad weather has been hindering rescue operations.
The landslides struck hilly villages in Kerala state‘s Wayanad district early Tuesday morning, destroying numerous houses and a bridge. However, the authorities cannot determine the full extent of the disaster. Despite efforts to rescue individuals stuck under mud and debris, the blocked roads and unstable terrain have impeded rescue efforts.
PM Manoj, the press secretary to the Kerala chief minister, confirmed that the landslides have claimed the lives of at least 70 individuals. Local media has reported that most victims were workers at tea estates.
In response, authorities deployed helicopters to aid in the rescue operations, and the Indian army was enlisted to construct a temporary bridge after the landslides destroyed a central bridge that connected the affected area.
Kerala, one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, is susceptible to heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. In 2018, nearly 500 individuals lost their lives in the state due to one of the most severe floods on record.