The death toll from the devastating landslides in the southern Indian state of Kerala has risen to 151, officials reported on Wednesday. The massive search and rescue operation, now in its second day, is focused on the Wayanad district, where landslides struck late Monday night and early Tuesday morning.
The Indian Army and Air Force have been deployed to assist local rescue agencies in evacuating affected residents. An official in Kerala informed Anadolu Agency that nearly 100 people are still missing, and 192 individuals are receiving medical treatment in various hospitals.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described the situation as a “heart-wrenching disaster,” noting that an entire area has been completely devastated. The state government has declared a two-day mourning period, postponing all public functions and celebrations in response to the tragedy.
The Indian Army’s Southern Command posted on social media platform X, stating that rescue operations are in full swing, with all branches of the Armed Forces actively engaged. The statement highlighted that over 700 individuals have been safely evacuated using improvised bridging and extensive human effort. The rescue mission continues as authorities work to locate the missing and provide aid to those affected.–News Desk