KUALA LUMPUR – Landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district have killed at least 63 people with dozens believed to be trapped under the debris.
Kerala state revenue minister K. Rajan’s office told AFP that some 116 people have been injured in the disaster that was triggered by heavy rain in the early hours today.
Rescue efforts have also been slow going as they are hindered by continuous rain and the collapse of a bridge, which has cut off crucial access to the district in southern India.
So far, 200 army personnel have been deployed to help local authorities in search-and-rescue operations.
It was also reported that nearly 300 people have been displaced and moved to temporary camps. Schools have been closed in 10 of 14 districts in the state.
Videos of the landslides have emerged on social media, showing muddy waters sweeping through the district’s unpaved streets, washing away homes and vehicles.
The hilly district of Wayanad and the neighbouring areas in the Western Ghats mountain range are prone to landslides during the monsoon season. – July 30, 2024