A landslide in Vattavada, Idukki district of Kerala, has claimed the lives of two siblings and left another person injured. The incident occurred in the Kottakamboor area amid heavy rainfall.
The victims have been identified as Balakrishnan and his sister Chinnu. They were reportedly taking shelter in a temporary farm shed when soil, rocks and debris from the hillside suddenly collapsed onto the structure.
Balakrishnan’s wife, Mariamma, was also inside the shed when the landslide occurred. She was rescued and taken to hospital after suffering injuries. She is currently receiving medical treatment.
Local residents quickly reached the spot and began rescue efforts. Because of the heavy rain and difficult terrain, bringing rescue equipment to the location was challenging. The victims were eventually pulled out from under the debris, but Balakrishnan and Chinnu could not be saved.
The incident has caused concern among people living in the Vattavada region, where heavy rain has continued in recent days. The area has several temporary agricultural sheds used by farmers and workers.
Idukki district minister Anoop Jacob visited Mariamma at the hospital and said the government would provide full financial support for her treatment. He also said assistance would be provided to the families of those who died in the landslide.
Authorities are also reviewing the situation in the region and monitoring the continuing rainfall. Officials are expected to assess the safety of affected areas and take further steps if necessary.
The tragedy has once again highlighted the risks faced by people working in hilly agricultural areas during periods of intense rainfall, particularly in regions vulnerable to landslides.