A terrifying viral video shows the moment a massive landslide hit a tunnel construction site near Meppady in Wayanad district on Tuesday, killing at least three people and leaving several others missing. The footage, widely shared on social media, captures the sudden rush of earth and debris overwhelming the area where workers were staying.
Rescue Efforts and Casualties
Officials confirmed that local residents managed to rescue three people from the affected site. The landslide occurred at Kalladi, near Meppady, where workers associated with the tunnel project had been housed. Deccan Herald reported the incident via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "At least three killed and many feared missing after a major landslide was reported at Kalladi near Meppady in Wayanad."
The video, posted by Deccan Herald, shows the landslide sweeping through the area, with a voice in the background urging, "Run fast." The exact number of missing persons is yet to be ascertained as rescue operations continue.
Background of the Site
The tunnel project is part of ongoing infrastructure development in the hilly terrain of Wayanad, which is prone to landslides during the monsoon season. The area has experienced heavy rainfall in recent days, contributing to soil instability. Authorities have cordoned off the site and are conducting search operations for any remaining trapped individuals.
Local officials stated that the rescued individuals have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their conditions are reported to be stable. The district administration has deployed additional rescue teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), to assist in the search.
Impact and Safety Measures
The incident has raised concerns about worker safety at construction sites in landslide-prone regions. Environmental activists have long warned about the risks of large-scale infrastructure projects in ecologically sensitive areas like Wayanad. The Kerala government has announced a probe into the incident and promised compensation for the victims' families.
As of Tuesday evening, rescue teams were using heavy machinery to clear debris and locate survivors. The district collector urged people to avoid the area and follow safety protocols. The monsoon season in Kerala typically lasts from June to September, with Wayanad often experiencing severe landslides during this period.
