Massive landslide kills 93 in India, one week after similar disaster in Ethiopia

A devastating landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rains has struck the southern Indian state of Kerala, killing at least 93 people and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The disaster occurred barely a week after a similar landslide in Ethiopia claimed the lives of over 250 people.

According to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, “93 dead bodies have been found so far… This is one of the worst natural calamities that our state has seen.”

Local reports also state that 116 people are injured and have been admitted to hospitals in the district, according to the state revenue minister’s office. The state’s ministers are coordinating relief and rescue operations with more rain expected over the next few days.

The landslide hit tea plantations in the Wayanad district, where many casual labourers were asleep in their homes when the disaster struck.

Rescue efforts have been complicated by blocked roads and torrential downpours, but officials say over 250 people have been rescued from the mud and debris.

“My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a social media post.

The Indian army has deployed over 200 soldiers to assist in search-and-rescue efforts, alongside state security forces and fire crews. Families of the victims will receive a compensation payment of $2,400 (200,000 rupees), according to Modi’s office.

With more rainfall and strong winds forecast in Kerala, concerns remain about the potential for further landslides and flooding. The disaster has highlighted the vulnerability of communities in the region to extreme weather events.

A week ago, two landslides in a remote region of southern Ethiopia killed over 250 people, with the United Nations warning that the death toll could be as high as 500.