Tragedy has struck the southern coastal state of Kerala, India, as landslides triggered by monsoon rains have claimed the lives of at least 45 people.
The disaster has left a trail of destruction, with homes and roads transformed into a landscape of mud and debris.
District official D.R. Meghasree confirmed the death toll, adding that 116 people are receiving treatment in hospital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences, saying, “My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured.”
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with over 200 soldiers deployed to assist state security forces and fire crews. The National Disaster Response Force has released images showing rescue crews trudging through mud to search for survivors and carry bodies on stretchers.
Kerala state excise minister M.B. Rajesh reported that over 250 people have been rescued so far. The government has announced a compensation payment of $2,400 (200,000 rupees) to the families of victims.
However, the situation remains dire, with more rainfall and strong winds forecasted in Kerala. The state’s disaster management agency has warned of further disruptions to relief efforts.
As the people of Kerala struggle to come to terms with the devastation, the nation mourns the loss of life and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured.
