At least eight people, including three children, died after massive landslides hit hilly areas of Wayanad district in the southern Indian state of Kerala, on Tuesday.
A large number of people are still feared to be trapped under debris. The incident occurred close to the Meppadi area.
According to reports, the first landslide occurred at around 2 am while another was reported in the same area later in the morning.
Following the landslides, the force and teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rushed to the spot.
Several videos of the region where the landslides struck are now going viral on social media.
PM Narendra Modi feels distressed
Expressing his sorrow, PM Narendra Modi posted on X: “Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured. “
He spoke with Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan and assured him of all possible assistance.
“Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri @pinarayivijayan and also assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there,” he said.
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said: “I am deeply anguished by the massive landslides near Meppadi in Wayanad. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones. I hope those still trapped are brought to safety soon.”
“I have spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway. I have requested them to ensure coordination with all agencies, set up a control room, and inform us of any assistance needed for the relief efforts,” he said.
Gandhi said he would speak with Central Ministers and ensure providing all possible assistance to Wayanad. Gandhi had won the Wayanad seat in this year’s general polls, but later vacated it. He was an MP from the seat between 2019 and 2024.
“I will speak to Union Ministers and request them to provide all assistance possible to Wayanad,” he said.
