Wayanad: At least three workers lost their lives, while several others are feared trapped after a massive landslide struck an under-construction tunnel project in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday. Rescue teams are continuing an intensive search operation despite difficult weather and unstable ground conditions.
How the Landslide Occurred
According to officials, the incident took place at a tunnel construction site when a large section of a nearby hill suddenly gave way following continuous heavy rainfall. The loose soil, rocks, and mud rushed down the slope, burying a portion of the tunnel entrance, construction equipment, and workers present at the site.
The collapse happened within seconds, leaving workers with little time to escape. Some workers managed to flee, while others were trapped under the debris.
Rescue Operation in Full Swing
Teams from the Fire and Rescue Services, Kerala Police, district administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and other emergency agencies rushed to the site immediately after the incident.
Three bodies have been recovered so far, while several workers have been rescued. Authorities believe more people may still be trapped, and excavators, earth-moving equipment, and rescue personnel are being used to remove debris carefully without triggering further collapses.
Heavy Rain Believed to Be the Trigger
Officials suspect that persistent monsoon rainfall weakened the hillside around the tunnel project, making the soil unstable and leading to the landslide.
Wayanad has witnessed continuous heavy rain over the past few days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing rain alerts for several parts of Kerala. Saturated soil, combined with the region’s hilly terrain, significantly increased the risk of landslides.
Rescue Hampered by Weather
Rescue efforts have been slowed by ongoing rainfall, slippery terrain, and the possibility of additional landslides. Authorities are proceeding cautiously to ensure the safety of both trapped workers and rescue personnel.
Senior district officials are monitoring the operation, while medical teams and ambulances remain stationed at the site.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident to determine whether adequate safety measures were in place at the construction site and to assess if the heavy rainfall warnings had been factored into ongoing work.
The exact number of workers trapped is yet to be officially confirmed. Rescue operations are expected to continue until all missing workers are accounted for.