As a result of heavy monsoon rains in India, there were extensive floods and landslides. The services reported that the tragic balance has already reached 27 fatalities. There are still dozens of people under the rubble and masses of mud. Probably their lives will no longer be saved.
The death toll from a landslide in the western Indian state of Maharashtra, which followed heavy monsoon rains, has risen to 27. Between 50 and 60 people are considered missing, but the chances of finding them alive under the mud are slim, local authorities said on Sunday.
Floods and landslides in IndiaReuters
Buried alive
The tragedy occurred on Thursday night in the mountain village of Irshalwadi, which has a population of around 225 and is located five kilometers from the nearest road, making it impossible to use heavy equipment in the rescue operation. Rainfall, poor visibility and hilly terrain have hampered the operation, local government official Yogesh Mhase said.
He added that the hopes of finding people still alive under the mud, but on the fourth day of the rescue operation, are very slim. Local media reported that the mudslide likely buried many families alive in Irshalwadi.
Floods and landslides in IndiaReuters
Floods and landslides in IndiaReuters
Dangerous season
Over the past two weeks, heavy rains have killed more than 100 people in northern India. Last week, at least 88 people died in Himachal Pradesh alone.
In this region as well as in the neighboring states of Uttarkhand and Hariana, there were many landslides and damage to numerous residential buildings. The authorities created about 2.5 thousand temporary camps to provide shelter to injured people.
The monsoon season in India lasts from June to September; So far this year’s rainfall has brought in 2 percent. more water than usual, the Indian Meteorological Service said.
Floods and landslides in IndiaReuters
Floods and landslides in IndiaReuters
Main photo source: Reuters