Multiple landslides triggered by torrential rains in southern India have killed 70 people, with many others feared trapped under debris, officials said Tuesday. Rescue operations are being hampered by bad weather.
The landslides struck hilly villages in Kerala state’s Wayanad district early Tuesday, destroying houses and a bridge. Authorities have yet to determine the full scope of the disaster. Rescuers are working to pull out people stuck under mud and debris, but their efforts are hindered by blocked roads and unstable terrain.
P M Manoj, press secretary to the Kerala chief minister, confirmed at least 70 deaths. Most of the victims were tea estate workers, local media reported.
Television footage showed rescue workers navigating mud and uprooted trees to reach those stranded. Vehicles swept off roads were seen stuck in a swollen river. Local TV news channels aired phone calls from stranded people asking for help.
Authorities mobilized helicopters for rescue efforts, and the Indian army built a temporary bridge after landslides destroyed the main bridge linking the affected area.
“We are trying every way to rescue our people,” state Health Minister Veena George said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed distress over the landslides in Wayanad on social media. He announced compensation of $2,388 to the victims’ families.
India’s weather department has put Kerala on alert as the state continues to be lashed by incessant rains. Downpours have disrupted life for many, leading to school closures in some parts. More rains are predicted through the day.
Kerala, one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, is prone to heavy rains, flooding, and landslides. Nearly 500 people were killed in the state in 2018 during one of its worst floods.
