At least 151 people lost their lives in landslides as of Wednesday, triggered by torrential monsoon rains. The number of casualties is expected to rise.
The landslides began early Tuesday, triggered by torrential monsoon rains.
Landslides in southern India’s Kerala state have killed at least 151 people, authorities said on Wednesday, as heavy rains hampered rescue efforts.
The number is casualties is expected to rise. More than 128 people were injured and around 187 are unaccounted for, state officials said.
The landslides on Tuesday, triggered by torrential monsoon rains, struck the Wayanad district, flattening houses and uprooting trees.
Most of the victims were tea estate workers and their families who lived in small houses or makeshift shelters. They were caught unaware by the disaster that occurred in the early morning.
Blocked roads and unstable terrain are hindering efforts, even as hundreds of rescuers are searching for survivors.
More than 3,000 people have been moved to relief camps, with the government providing food, water, and medical aid, officials said.
Meanwhile, the Indian Army has started constructing an alternate bridge after the main bridge connecting the affected area to the nearest town was destroyed.
