A series of landslides triggered by relentless rain has struck the hilly region of Wayanad in India’s southern state of Kerala, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 people. The disaster, which occurred near Meppadi at around 2 am on Tuesday (20:30 GMT on Monday), has left dozens more feared trapped and has cut off at least four villages.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Heavy Rain in Kerala
Rescue operations are being significantly hindered by continued heavy rain. Despite the challenging conditions, more than 200 soldiers have been deployed to the affected area, and two Indian Air Force helicopters have been mobilized. Additionally, police drones and a dog squad are being utilized to assist in the rescue efforts.
P M Manoj, press secretary to the Kerala chief minister, confirmed the death toll of at least 49 people, with expectations that the number may rise further. At least 70 individuals have been injured and are receiving treatment in district hospitals.
Extensive Rescue Operations Underway
The Indian Army has reported that hundreds of people are suspected to be trapped. A statement from the Army indicated that a medical team has been dispatched to rescue approximately 250 individuals likely stranded. Sandosh Kumar, a member of parliament representing Kerala, described some flooded areas in his district as “completely marooned,” emphasizing the increasing difficulty of rescue operations.
Photographs from the scene depict torrents of brown swirling water, fallen trees, large boulders, and damaged buildings, highlighting the severity of the situation. State Forest Minister AK Saseendran stated that the government has engaged all agencies in the rescue operations, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Government Response and Continued Rainfall
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his distress over the events in Kerala through a social media post, stating that he had spoken to the state’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and assured him of “all possible help.” Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who previously represented the Wayanad constituency in parliament, also conveyed his deep anguish and hope for the swift rescue of those trapped.
India’s meteorological agency has forecasted more rain in the coming hours, which may further complicate rescue efforts.
Monsoon Rains: A Double-Edged Sword
Monsoon rains, which occur from June to September, are crucial for replenishing water supplies and supporting agriculture, a vital aspect of the livelihoods of millions of farmers and food security for nearly two billion people in South Asia. However, these rains also bring destruction in the form of landslides and floods.
In recent years, the number of fatal floods and landslides has increased, with experts attributing this rise to the exacerbating effects of climate change. As the situation in Kerala continues to develop, the focus remains on rescuing the trapped individuals and providing aid to the affected communities.
