Thiruvananthapuram/IBNS: At least 24 people have been killed and hundreds are feared trapped after three landslides rocked the Wayanad district of Kerala, media reports said.

The landslides, which caused the roads to be swept away, were accompanied by heavy rains.

Several agencies including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are undertaking the rescue operation.

According to reports, the first landslide occurred at around 2 am while another was reported in the same area later in the morning.

Several videos of the region where the landslides struck are now going viral on social media.

Reactions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "Distressed by the landslides in parts of Wayanad. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones and prayers with those injured.

"Rescue ops are currently underway to assist all those affected. Spoke to Kerala CM Shri @pinarayivijayan and also assured all possible help from the Centre in the wake of the prevailing situation there."

An X post by the Kerala CMO reads, "CM @pinarayivijayan has given directions to coordinate the rescue operations in Wayanad promptly following the devastating landslide. He announced that the entire government machinery is actively involved in the efforts, with Ministers overseeing and coordinating the operations."

Former Wayanad Congress MP Rahul Gandhi wrote on X, "I am deeply anguished by the massive landslides near Meppadi in Wayanad. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families who have lost their loved ones. I hope those still trapped are brought to safety soon.

"I have spoken to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Wayanad District Collector, who assured me that rescue operations are underway. I have requested them to ensure coordination with all agencies, set up a control room, and inform us of any assistance needed for the relief efforts. I will speak to Union Ministers and request them to provide all assistance possible to Wayanad. I urge all UDF workers to assist the administration in the rescue and relief operations."