A series of massive landslides, triggered by heavy rains, struck the hilly regions of Kerala’s Wayanad district early on Tuesday, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The disaster has claimed the lives of over 70 people, with many more injured and an unknown number still trapped under the debris. The death toll continues to rise, with District Collector Meghasree D R reporting 45 fatalities, including 36 in Chooralmala alone.
Tragically, 9 bodies were recovered in Malappuram, swept away by the Chaliyar River. The catastrophic impact of the landslides has been widely documented through videos and photos circulating online.
Following the devastating event, condolences poured in from political leaders. Congress leader and former Director General of Police Karuna Sagar shared a clip highlighting the calamitous landslide that wreaked havoc in the region. The state government swiftly dispatched rescue personnel, medical equipment, and health workers to Vythiri, Mananthawadi, Kalpetta, and Meppadi government hospitals.
In the wake of the dire situation, the Indian Navy, deployed from the Ezhimala Naval Base in Kannur, has been tasked with assisting rescue operations. Kerala Chief Minister Pinrayi Vijayan requested the Navy’s River Crossing team following the torrential rains that led to the devastating landslides.
Further complicating the rescue efforts, the main bridge in Chooralmala town collapsed, hindering access to the affected areas. To aid the rescue mission, the Indian Army and Air Force have also been mobilized. Drones and a dog squad are being utilized to enhance the search and rescue operations.
Congress MP from Vadakara, Shafi Parambil, reported that the Malayangadu Bridge has been washed away by a landslide. Four houses have been damaged, leaving 12 families stranded. The situation is dire, with one person reported missing.
As news of the tragedy unfolded, members of the Congress and Communist Party of India Marxist (CPI-M) in Parliament called for the landslides to be declared a ‘national disaster’. CPI-M MP John Brittas appealed for assistance from the Defence, Home, and Finance Ministries in addressing the aftermath of the devastating landslides that affected Meppadi, Mundakkal Town, and Chooralmala areas. The situation remains critical with hundreds feared trapped under the debris and rescue operations ongoing.
