Thiruvananthapuram, July 8: The Kerala government has announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives in the recent landslide at the Kalladi tunnel construction site near Meppadi in Wayanad. The announcement was made by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan following a review meeting on the ongoing rescue and relief operations.
The landslide, triggered by continuous heavy monsoon rainfall, buried a section of the tunnel construction site, claiming several lives and leaving a number of workers missing. Rescue operations have been continuing around the clock, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, Police, Forest Department, and the State Disaster Management Authority working under difficult weather conditions to locate the remaining missing workers.
Along with the financial assistance, the Chief Minister assured that the state government would extend every possible support to the affected families. Relief measures, including temporary accommodation, counselling, and assistance for the injured, are being coordinated by the district administration. Medical teams and emergency response units remain stationed near the disaster site to provide immediate care whenever required.
The government has also ordered a dual inquiry into the incident. One investigation will examine the technical aspects of the landslide, while another will determine whether the construction company complied with environmental clearance conditions and safety regulations. Officials stated that work on the tunnel project will remain suspended until both investigations are completed and the site is declared safe.
Meanwhile, rescue personnel continue to clear debris using heavy earth-moving machinery, drones, and specialised search equipment despite intermittent rain and unstable terrain. Authorities have appealed to the public to avoid visiting the affected area, allowing emergency teams to carry out rescue operations without interruption.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast further heavy rainfall across parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to maintain high alert in landslide-prone regions. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel through hilly areas until weather conditions improve.
