At Least 45 Killed In Massive Landslides After Heavy Rainfall In Kerala's Wayanad; Rescue Operations Underway

At least 45 people have been killed in landslides following torrential rains in hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has dispatched Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the region, anticipating that hundreds are suspected be trapped.

Additional NDRF personnel and two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps are en route to support the operations.

Rescue operations are facing significant challenges due to heavy rainfall.

Officials have expressed fears that many individuals may have been swept away in the Chaliyar River, which flows into the Nilambur region in Malappuram.

In Mundakkai, the landslide has buried several houses, shops, and vehicles under debris.

The destruction of a bridge leading to the affected area has further complicated rescue efforts.

The NDRF recovered several bodies and rescued one person alive during the search operation in the debris. The Indian Army has been deployed at the site to ramp up the rescue efforts. The total strength of the Army deployed is about 225, including medical personnel.

Experiencing concern over the landslide, PM Modi said, "My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones, and my prayers are with the injured.”

He assured that the central government would provide all possible assistance in response to the situation.

Additionally, he announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased individual and Rs. 50,000 for those who have been injured.

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