ALBAWABA - According to AFP figures, at least 24 people have been killed, and dozens are feared to be trapped under mud and debris as monsoon rains continue to pound Kerala, India.
According to local media reports, a key bridge in the coastal state of Kerala had collapsed hampering the rescue efforts by emergency crews, with torrential heavy rains worsening the already disastrous situation.
"So far, we have received 24 bodies in different hospitals. Many are injured, they are under treatment," Kerala state health minister, Reena George, told the press.
The National Disaster Response Force released images of rescue teams transporting bodies on stretchers out of one of the affected areas over muddy dirt and scattered debris caused by the landslide's effect.
The Indian army said it dispatched more than 200 soldiers to the region to assist state security authorities and fire personnel with search and rescue operations.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to offer his condolences and stress that all efforts have been dedicated to offering all possible help.
"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" Modi wrote.
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 added.
