Kerala, July 30- The Wanad district of Kerala has been struck by three devastating landslides within four hours due to heavy rains. The disaster has claimed at least 54 lives, with many more feared trapped under the debris. The Kerala government has called for the assistance of the Indian Army to bolster the ongoing rescue efforts.

Rescue operations, led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies, are facing significant challenges. Landslides have isolated villages such as Mundakkai, Churmala, Attmala, and Nulpuzha, and rescue workers are encountering obstacles like large rocks blocking their path. Despite heavy rains, rescuers continue to work diligently, retrieving the dead and injured and transporting them to ambulances.

The Hindu reported that the force of the floods has swept vehicles into tree trunks, submerging them in water and complicating the rescue operations further.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that all government agencies are actively participating in the rescue mission, with state ministers arriving at the affected areas to oversee the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in contact with Chief Minister Vijayan, offering full support from the central government. Modi has instructed BJP President JP Nadda to mobilize party workers for rescue efforts and has discussed the situation with Union Minister Suresh Gopi, the BJP's sole MP from Kerala.

The Prime Minister's Office has announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those who have died and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Besides the NDRF, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, and the Kannur Defense Security Corps, additional forces are prepared to assist in the rescue operations.

The situation remains critical as the rescue teams race against time to save those still trapped under the rubble and provide relief to the affected communities.