Wayanad: The death toll from the landslides that struck Kerala's Wayanad district on Tuesday has risen to 23, according to state Health Minister Veena George. 

George informed reporters that 23 bodies have been recovered so far and are being held in various hospital mortuaries. The bodies of 18 individuals are currently at Meppadi hospital, while five are at a private hospital. In light of the rising number of casualties, teams of health workers have been dispatched to manage the situation.

Currently, only the number of bodies found in Meppadi, Wayanad, has been officially confirmed. Bodies suspected to have been carried by the river due to the landslides, including those from Nilambur, have not yet been included in the count.

Among the deceased, four people, including a child, perished in Chooralmala town, while a one-year-old child from a family in Nepal died in Thondernad village, according to Wayanad district authorities. Additionally, three bodies, including that of a five-year-old, were recovered from the banks of a river near Pothukal village.

Authorities fear that hundreds may be trapped, although this has not been officially confirmed. State Revenue Minister K. Rajan reported that over 70 individuals injured in the landslides have been admitted to various hospitals. However, the latest media reports suggest the death toll has reached 36, with numbers expected to rise further.

The landslides have affected several villages, including Mundakkai, Chooralmala, Attamala, and Noolpuzha, cutting them off from access. The disaster, which occurred early on Tuesday, has caused widespread destruction, with numerous houses demolished, water bodies swollen, and trees uprooted.

In response, government agencies, volunteers, and local residents are collaborating in the rescue operations. District authorities have relocated several families to temporary camps or the homes of relatives following the landslides.

With PTI inputs.