At least 41 people have died and many more have been injured due to landslides in Kerala’s Wayanad district, local media reports. Rescue efforts are hindered by the collapse of a key bridge. State Health Minister Veena George confirmed over 70 injuries, and reports suggest some individuals may have been swept away by the Chaliyar river.

State Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran described the situation as severe and noted that additional rain is expected. The army is constructing a temporary bridge after the destruction of a vital link between tea and cardamom estates and the town of Chooralmala.

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Local reports show relief teams navigating through debris and floodwaters, with some homes completely destroyed. Efforts to rescue individuals trapped in mud and other hazards are ongoing, though challenging due to road access issues.

Rashid Padikkalparamban, a resident, reported multiple landslides that began around midnight, resulting in the loss of the connecting bridge. Many estate workers and those staying in temporary shelters are feared trapped or missing.

Kerala, known for its susceptibility to heavy rains and flooding, experienced a severe flood in 2018 that killed nearly 400 people. Relief operations are underway with two Indian Air Force helicopters assisting, while rescue efforts are complicated by the damaged infrastructure.

Rahul Gandhi, former MP from Wayanad, has coordinated with the state chief minister to support rescue and relief operations.