A landslide triggered by heavy rain struck a tunnel construction site near Kalladi, close to Meppadi in Kerala’s Wayanad district, officials said. The incident occurred at a work zone linked to a twin-tunnel project, where workers were caught under debris.
Of the 20 labourers reported trapped, five deaths have been confirmed so far. Rescue operations are continuing to locate and bring out the remaining workers.
Fire and rescue personnel, along with disaster response teams, have reached the spot and begun search-and-rescue efforts. Authorities said the work is being carried out intensively as conditions remain challenging.
The district has been receiving heavy southwest monsoon rain over the past few days. Rainfall recorded over the 24 hours ending 8 am included Meppadi (226 mm), Lakkidi (210 mm), Puthumala (202 mm) and Kalladi (188 mm).
Wayanad MP Priyanka, in a statement, expressed condolences to the families of those who died and said the Chief Minister is monitoring the situation. She also urged Congress workers to follow district administration instructions and assist those affected.
