Kerala Landslides Claim Over 150 Lives as India Searches for Survivors
Los Angeles, Jan 09, 2024
NRIpress.club/Ramesh/ A.Gary Singh
Rescue operations are continuing in Kerala, India, after severe monsoon rains caused deadly landslides, leaving hundreds stranded and claiming over 150 lives. Authorities fear the death toll will rise, with many victims having drowned. The landslides struck the Wayanad district early Tuesday.
Rescue workers face hazardous conditions, including heavy rain, power outages, destroyed bridges, and blocked roads, as they attempt to save survivors and assess the damage. "We are doing our best to rescue people and leaving no stone unturned," said A. K. Saseendran, Kerala’s Minister for Forest and Wildlife.
Emergency responders, navigating mud and fallen trees, are carrying bodies in tarps and helping residents move to safety amid the continuing rain. Videos shared by India’s National Disaster Response Force show rescue workers using inflatable boats to reach people.
State Health Minister Veena George mentioned the difficulties posed by bad weather and lack of electricity, though helicopters have been deployed. The Indian Army’s southern command reported that up to 1,000 people had been rescued by Wednesday.
Local resident Janaki recounted being awakened by a loud noise from the river and water flooding her yard. Her family took shelter in a neighbor’s home, only to be hit by another landslide. "Large stones and logs came in," she said. Her husband, Vasu, praised the rescuers for their timely response.
Dr. Manoj Narayanan of Moopens Medical College Hospital in Mepaddi reported receiving about 100 patients since early Tuesday, with around 10 dead on arrival. Many patients suffered fractures, abrasions, and lacerations, with some having mud in their lungs.
Narayanan noted that rescue efforts were ongoing, particularly in an inaccessible village of 400 households where bodies were still being recovered. Kerala experienced up to 250 mm (10 inches) of rain in 24 hours, with widespread rainfall totals of 150 mm (6 inches), typical for the season.
The recent heavy flooding and landslides in South Asia have killed hundreds and displaced millions. Scientists attribute the worsening extreme weather events to the climate crisis.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his distress over the landslides and announced financial aid for the victims' families.
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