Kerala: At least 123 dead, 128 injured in Wayanad landslides

In one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit Kerala in recent memory, at least 123 people have been confirmed dead and 128 injured following massive landslides triggered by torrential rains in the district of Wayanad on Tuesday.

The disaster has left hundreds trapped under debris, with fears of further fatalities mounting as rescue operations continue.

The catastrophic landslides, which began in the early hours of the morning, have ravaged the picturesque hamlets of Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha. Heart-wrenching scenes have emerged from the affected areas, with survivors describing the chaos and desperation as they were either trapped in their homes or stranded with no means of escape. Phone conversations from those trapped revealed harrowing pleas for help amid the wreckage.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan addressed the press in Thiruvananthapuram, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy. “Due to the intense rainfall, landslides occurred, and an entire region has been destroyed. Ninety-three bodies have been recovered so far,” Vijayan stated. He also reported that 128 individuals are receiving treatment in various hospitals.

The Chief Minister detailed the extent of the devastation, noting that children, including infants, were among those who lost their lives. The floodwaters had swept away many, with sixteen bodies recovered from the Chaliyar River in Pothukallu, located in the neighbouring Malappuram district. “This is one of the most severe natural disasters our state has ever seen,” Vijayan said.