Wayanad: At least 84 people have been confirmed dead and hundreds more are feared trapped under mud and debris following a series of devastating landslides triggered by relentless monsoon rains in Kerala's hill district of Wayanad on Tuesday.

According to Kerala Chief Secretary Dr. V.Venu, the situation remains “very grave” as the landslide struck in an isolated region, severely hampering rescue and relief efforts due to heavy rains and challenging terrain. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously forecasted heavy rainfall for the district, which has exacerbated the situation.

The Indian Army has been deployed to assist in the rescue operations. With a crucial temporary bridge connecting the affected area to the nearest town destroyed, the Army has mobilized four columns, including two from the 122 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) and two from the DSC Centre in Kannur. Additionally, two Indian Air Force helicopters have been dispatched to aid in the rescue efforts.

Rescue operations are further complicated by the lack of internet connectivity in the affected region. State Forest Minister AK Saseendran described the situation as critical, stating that all available agencies have been mobilized to support the rescue operations. A special control room has been established at the police headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram to coordinate the response.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured all possible assistance from the Central Government. The Prime Minister has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of each deceased, with ₹50,000 allocated for those injured.

As efforts continue to reach and aid the affected, the focus remains on rescuing those trapped and providing relief to the devastated communities.