Wayanad, July 7: The death toll from the landslide at the Kalladi tunnel construction site near Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district has risen, while rescue teams continue an intensive search for workers believed to be trapped beneath tonnes of mud and debris. The incident, triggered by relentless monsoon rains, has once again highlighted the vulnerability of the hilly district to rain-related disasters.
The landslide occurred during ongoing construction work on the Anakampoyil–Meppadi tunnel project. A massive section of loosened earth and rocks collapsed onto the worksite, burying machinery and trapping workers before they could move to safety. Several vehicles parked near the construction area were also damaged by the sudden flow of mud.
A large-scale rescue operation is underway, involving personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, Police, Forest Department, and the State Disaster Management Authority. Heavy earth-moving equipment, excavators, drones, and search devices are being deployed to clear debris and locate those who remain missing. However, persistent rainfall and unstable soil conditions continue to hamper rescue efforts.
District authorities have established emergency coordination centres to monitor the operation and provide support to the families of the victims and missing workers. Medical teams and ambulances have been stationed near the site, while temporary shelters have been arranged for those affected by the incident.
Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan reviewed the situation with senior officials and directed all departments to ensure that rescue operations continue without interruption. He assured that every possible assistance would be extended to the victims’ families and that a detailed investigation would be conducted into the cause of the landslide.
Experts believe continuous heavy rainfall may have weakened the soil around the construction site, though officials have stated that a technical inquiry will determine whether geological conditions, excavation activities, or other factors contributed to the collapse.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more heavy rainfall across parts of Kerala in the coming days. Authorities have urged residents in landslide-prone and hilly areas to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain, and strictly follow evacuation advisories issued by local officials. Rescue teams remain hopeful of locating the remaining missing workers as operations continue around the clock.
news as reported
