A major landslide at a tunnel construction project in Kerala’s Wayanad district has claimed one life and left seven people missing, prompting an extensive rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, police and local volunteers.
The incident occurred on Tuesday near Meenakshi Bridge at Kalladi in Meppady, where work on a tunnel road connecting Wayanad and Malappuram districts was in progress.
Landslide Strikes Tunnel Project Site
According to officials, the landslide hit an area where workers associated with the tunnel project were staying.
Local residents rushed to the scene and rescued at least three workers before emergency teams arrived.
Authorities said several vehicles used to transport workers were also damaged during the incident.
Rescue personnel continue to search for those believed to be trapped beneath debris.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Officials confirmed that:
- One person has died.
- Seven people remain missing.
- Several people have been injured and shifted to nearby hospitals.
- Rescue operations are being carried out by the NDRF, Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, police and district authorities.
Emergency teams are using heavy machinery and specialised equipment to clear debris while searching for survivors.
Chief Minister Orders Immediate Action
Following the incident, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheeshan convened an emergency meeting and directed senior officials to coordinate rescue and relief efforts.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, Revenue Minister A.P. Anil Kumar and Wayanad Minister T. Siddique were instructed to travel to the affected area and oversee the ongoing operation.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as rescue efforts continue.
Minister Raises Concerns Over Tunnel Project
Agriculture Minister T. Siddique alleged that the landslide may have been linked to unscientific dumping of soil and debris during the tunnel construction project.
He said concerns about dumping practices had reportedly been raised during earlier meetings but claimed that corrective measures were not implemented.
The minister described the incident as a preventable tragedy and said the allegations would be examined as part of the investigation.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the landslide, including whether construction practices or environmental factors contributed to the collapse.
Officials continue to prioritise rescue efforts while assessing the stability of the surrounding area to ensure the safety of emergency responders and nearby residents.
