On Tuesday, Kerala’s Wayanad district was hit by a series of severe landslides, resulting in the deaths of at least 45 people. The disaster struck the Meppadi region, where torrential rains triggered three consecutive landslides that ravaged Chooralmala village.
The heavy rains caused widespread destruction, washing away roads, bridges, and homes, and sending bodies floating in the rivers. Rescue efforts have been challenging, as the full extent of the damage remains unclear.
The landslides occurred between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., destroying significant portions of Chooralmala, including local shops and vehicles. Authorities have confirmed 45 fatalities, with concerns that many more may be trapped under the debris. Reports indicate that over 200 homes in Chooralmala were swept away.
Compounding the difficulties, the collapse of the bridge over the Iruvazhinji River has disrupted rescue operations in Mundakkai, as it was the only connection between Chooralmala and Mundakkai.
The situation remains critical, with minor landslides continuing in the upper hills of Wayanad. Additionally, the Chaliyar River’s water level has surged beyond the danger mark due to runoff from the Meppadi landslides.
In response, the Indian Army from Wellington, Coonoor has been deployed to assist with rescue operations and to construct a temporary bridge to reconnect Mundakkai. According to the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology, more than 300 mm of rainfall was recorded in parts of the Western Ghats over the past 24 hours.
In the Lok Sabha, Leader of the Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said, “Early this morning, Wayanad was hit by several devastating landslides. More than 70 people have been killed. Mundakkai village has been cut off, and the full extent of the loss of life and damage is still being assessed. I have spoken to the Defence Minister and the Chief Minister of Kerala. I urge the Union Government to provide all possible support for rescue and medical care, expedite compensation for the victims—possibly increasing the compensation amount—restore essential transport and communication links, set up immediate relief efforts, and develop a plan for the rehabilitation of affected families. The threat of further landslides remains in many areas of Wayanad and the Western Ghats. Our country has seen a troubling increase in landslides in recent years. It is crucial to map landslide-prone areas, implement mitigation measures, and create an action plan to address the rising frequency of natural disasters in this ecologically sensitive region.”
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged support from the central government. Rahul Gandhi has also committed to seeking additional assistance from Union ministers.
Relief efforts are ongoing, with two Indian Air Force helicopters deployed to assist. Visuals from the scene show rescue teams working through debris and flooding, with many homes already destroyed.
Kerala, which has faced severe flooding in the past, including the devastating 2018 flood that claimed nearly 400 lives, remains highly vulnerable to such natural calamities.