As heavy rains lash Kerala, series of landslides hit the region killing more than 13 people. Twelve others have been rescued so far and are undergoing treatment at Munnar’s Tata General Hospital.
Reports say that the landslides happened in the Rajamalai area of Idukki, which is only 25 km from, Munnar, a famous tourist spot. It is unknown as to how many more people are trapped under the mud due to the landslide. Officials also said that the connecting bridge had been swept away, making it difficult to access the area for rescue teams. A 50 member task force has been equipped, in addition to IAF helicopters for rescue and relief efforts.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had tweeted that, following the NDRF team that has reached the landslide site, a second Thrissur based team was also on their way to the disaster zone, along with fire service personnel and rescue officials. Night travel has been banned in Idukki and several roads and highways have been closed due to rains.
A 50 member strong special task force team of the Fire Force has been dispatched to Rajamalai in Idukki for rescue efforts. They have been equipped for nighttime rescue activities. #KeralaRains pic.twitter.com/olo1eraMNV
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) August 7, 2020
Condolences to the bereaved families of those who have lost their lives in Rajamalai, Idukki(Kerala) due to landslide.
Have spoken to DG NDRF, their team has reached the spot to provide all possible assistance to the administration with the rescue work. May injured recover soon.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2020
Heavy rain also lashed Ernakulam district, with a Shiva temple in Aluva flooded after water levels rose significantly in the Periyar river. Rain and landslides also disrupted life in Wayanad district’s Kurichiyarmala area, where two houses have been damaged so far.