At Least 23 Dead As Massive Landslides Hit Kerala's Wayanad

At least 23 people died and several were hospitalised as landslides hit Kerala's Wayanad district on Tuesday. The landslide reportedly occurred in Mundakai and Chooralmala areas. Rescue teams have been deployed to the affected regions, and two Air Force helicopters are also expected to join the rescue operations.

Reports indicate that several houses in Chooralmala village have been washed off. Rescue teams are yet to reach out to the Mundakkai area as the bridge connecting the two villages has been destroyed in the landslide. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has deployed Fireforce and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the affected regions. Notably, additional NDRF teams are en route to Wayanad. News Agency ANI reported that two Air Force helicopters, a Mi-17 and an ALH, will depart from Tamil Nadu's Sulur as part of rescue operation.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to get details about the situation. PM Modi also assured all possible help from the central government. PM Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.