Wayanad landslide death toll rises to eight as final victim recovered

A landslide struck the Kalladi tunnel construction site in Wayanad district, Kerala, India, on July 7, burying part of the worksite and triggering a massive rescue effort. Over six days, teams from the National Disaster Response Force, police, fire services, forest department and local volunteers searched the area and the Meenachil River.

On the sixth day, the body of Vikram Rana, a 58‑year‑old construction manager, was recovered downstream, confirming eight fatalities. The Kerala government announced ex‑gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh for families of the deceased and medical assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh for the injured. An expert committee was ordered to investigate the tunnel project's compliance with environmental and contractual clearances before work can resume. Traffic restrictions remain on the Meppadi–Chooralmala road while debris removal and road clearance are scheduled to begin.