108 killed after landslides strike India: Video
Landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains in Kerala, India have resulted in at least 108 deaths, with at least 250 others rescued from mud and debris.
The landslides struck the tea plantations in Wayanad district early July 30, following days of torrential rains.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it "one of the worst natural calamities Kerala has ever witnessed."
"This catastrophe has resulted in the loss of 108 lives," he added in a statement cited by AFP.
"My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured," Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media platform X.
The Indian army has sent over 200 soldiers to help with the rescue efforts. However, rescue operations are challenging due to blocked roads. The National Disaster Response Force has been seen wading through mud and transporting bodies on stretchers.
The region's tea estates were hit by two landslides before dawn, affecting many residents and workers. Families of the deceased will receive $2,400 (200,000 rupees) in compensation. More than 3,000 people are now in emergency relief camps.
Recent months have seen severe flooding in Mumbai and fatal lightning strikes in Bihar. The deadliest landslide in recent decades occurred in 1998 in the Himalayas, killing at least 220 people.
