Daijiworld Media Network - Wayanad

Wayanad, Jul 7: A major landslide struck Kalladi near Meppady in Kerala's Wayanad district on Tuesday, triggering a large-scale rescue operation amid fears that several people may be trapped under the debris, officials said.

The landslide occurred near Meenakshi Bridge, where construction is underway on the Anakkompoyil-Meppadi tunnel road project connecting Malappuram and Wayanad districts.

Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Kalpetta rushed to the spot after receiving information about the incident. Search and rescue operations were launched to trace those feared trapped.

Authorities said work at the tunnel project had already been suspended from Monday due to heavy rainfall. The area received around 265 mm of rain in the past 24 hours, and officials suspect the downpour triggered the landslide.

Before rescue teams arrived, local residents managed to rescue three people who were staying in accommodation used by workers associated with the tunnel project.

Officials are verifying whether more workers or local residents remain trapped beneath the debris.

The landslide also affected nearby houses and homestays, while several vehicles used by tunnel project workers were damaged. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.

Police, Fire and Rescue Services personnel and teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have joined the rescue operation.

State Minister T. Siddique and the Wayanad District Collector are monitoring the situation and coordinating relief efforts.

The Anakkompoyil-Meppadi tunnel road project, launched last year, is a key infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity between Malappuram and Wayanad districts. Authorities are also assessing the impact of the landslide on the project site.