The landslides in Kerala are the most devastating disaster since 2018 when severe floods claimed nearly 400 lives. On Tuesday, at least 73 people lost their lives due to landslides that ravaged tea estates in Kerala's Wayanad district. Heavy rains on Monday triggered the landslides, causing hillsides to collapse and send torrents of mud, water, and boulders onto homes, leaving several individuals missing.
Most victims were estate workers and their families, asleep in makeshift tents. Rescuers faced challenges navigating through uprooted trees and flattened structures, with boulders and muddy water complicating their efforts. The state's chief minister's spokesman reported that determining the exact number of casualties was difficult as body parts were discovered in the river.
Out of nearly 350 affected families, around 250 individuals have been rescued so far. The army is assisting by constructing an alternate bridge after the original one was destroyed. The weather office forecasts continued heavy rainfall, heightening concerns about further disasters.
State cabinet minister M B Rajesh emphasized the severity of the situation, with rescue operations ongoing on a war footing. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his sorrow and urged the union government to provide maximum support.
