A Major landslide occurred in Rajamalai in the Idukki district of Kerala, at around 11 P M on Thursday. The latest reports show that at least 11 people have been found dead and 14 have been severely injured. The present situation in Rajamalai is highly critical. It is estimated that over 58 people are stuck under the mud. Sixteen people are reported to have been rescued. The bad climate has created hindrance to rescue works in the region.
Electricity and communication lines have also been cut off in the region
Over 83 residents lived in the area in 3 line quarters when the disaster took place.
According to reports, the rescue work had begun at around 6.30 in the morning. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed to the place. A group of 50 Fire Force workers and health workers have also been sent.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that another team was also en route, and revenue officials had been instructed to join rescue efforts.
A 50 member strong special task force team of the Fire Force has been dispatched to Rajamalai in Idukki for rescue efforts. They have been equipped for nighttime rescue activities. #KeralaRains pic.twitter.com/olo1eraMNV
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) August 7, 2020
Revenue Minister E. Chandrashekharan said that airlifting is not possible at present due to adverse weather conditions.
Health Minister KK Shailaja said that a mobile medical team and ambulances have been sent to Idukki.
Red alert has been issued in three districts, Idukki, Wayanad and Malappuram and orange alert has been declared in 9 districts.
The rescue operation is progressing in the region and JCB is being used for removing the mud.
The injured are being treated at Munnar’s Tata General Hospital and Kolanchery hospital.
Meanwhile, heavy rains have been reported in Ernakulam with the famous Aluva Shiva Temple getting flooded after a significant increase in the water levels of the Periyar River. Other districts such as Pathanamthitta and Wayanad are also under threat due to heavy rains.
The IMD also predicted that a Low-pressure area is likely to be formed over the Bay of Bengal.
