A massive landslide struck the Anakkompoyil-Meppadi Tunnel Project near Kalladi in Kerala’s Wayanad district on Tuesday morning. Several workers were buried under the debris, triggering a large rescue operation.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, local police, and district officials rushed to the site. Heavy rainfall had already disrupted construction in the region. Officials believe saturated soil collapsed during excavation work.
Note: Authorities continue to verify casualty figures. Some reports mention two deaths, while others suggest the toll has risen to three. Officials will release confirmed numbers after rescue teams complete their search.
How the Landslide Happened
The incident occurred near Meenakshi Bridge at Kalladi. Engineers are constructing the Anakkompoyil-Meppadi tunnel road to improve connectivity between Wayanad and Malappuram.
Authorities suspended excavation work on Monday after heavy rain alerts. However, several workers remained at the site. A large section of earth suddenly collapsed and buried part of the work area.
According to the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), the region received 265 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours. Continuous rain weakened the hillside. As a result, the risk of landslides increased significantly.
Local residents quickly reached the site. They rescued several workers before emergency teams arrived.
Rescue Operation Continues
Soon after the incident, NDRF personnel, Fire and Rescue teams, police officers, and district officials launched a coordinated rescue mission.
Rescuers are clearing mud and rocks with heavy machinery. Meanwhile, search teams continue looking for workers who may still be trapped.
The Wayanad District Collector and senior officials are supervising operations. They are coordinating rescue efforts on the ground.
Authorities have not confirmed the exact number of missing workers.
Kerala Government Intensifies Rescue Efforts
The Kerala government responded immediately after the landslide.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed officials to conduct rescue operations on a war footing. He also instructed ministers and senior officers to reach Wayanad without delay.
In addition, authorities deployed excavators and other heavy equipment. These machines are helping remove debris and improve access to the affected area.
Why This Area Faces High Landslide Risk
The tunnel project lies close to Chooralmala and Mundakkai. These villages suffered devastating landslides in July 2024, when more than 250 people lost their lives.
Experts have repeatedly warned about this region. Continuous rainfall, steep slopes, and excavation work make the area highly vulnerable during the monsoon.
Therefore, authorities closely monitor all construction projects whenever heavy rain hits Wayanad.
What Happens Next?
Rescue teams continue searching for workers beneath the debris.
Meanwhile, engineers will inspect the tunnel project after rescue operations finish. Officials will also investigate the exact cause of the landslide.
District authorities have urged residents to stay away from the construction site. They also asked people to follow official advisories until the area becomes safe.
The rescue operation remains underway. Officials are expected to provide more updates as the situation develops.
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