The ongoing heavy rainfall is complicating rescue efforts. A one-year-old child of a Nepali family living in Thondernad village was among those killed in the landslide, according to the Wayanad district authorities.
The landslides have destroyed the main bridge in Chooralmala, trapping many people in various locations affected by the landslides.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has assured that army assistance will be sought to build a temporary bridge, evacuate people by helicopter, and establish necessary arrangements at the disaster site.
Currently, at least 20 NDRF members, along with local rescue workers, have been deployed to the site. They are working to evacuate families from the area. The number of casualties remains uncertain, according to the latest Manorama reports.
CM Vijayan has confirmed that all government agencies are involved in the search and rescue operations. The operations will be coordinated, and state ministers will reach the hilly district to lead the rescue activities
CM added that in the wake of the landslides and other rain-related disasters in Wayanad district, the Health Department -- National Health Mission -- has opened a control room. Those in need of emergency assistance can contact authorities through these two numbers -- 9656938689 and 8086010833 -- the statement said.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has deployed Fireforce and NDRF teams to the affected area, with an additional NDRF team on its way to Wayanad. Two teams from the Kannur Defence Security Corps have also been dispatched to assist in the rescue efforts.
Locals report that many people are feared trapped, and rescue operations are being hindered by ongoing heavy rainfall.