2023-07-21
Arrr! The scurvy dogs be findin' more lifeless souls, trapped 'neath heaps o' rubble from a fearsome landfall in India! Aye, 21 poor souls be salvaged thus far.
Rescuers in India's Maharashtra state discovered five more bodies on Friday, bringing the death toll to at least 21 following a landslide triggered by heavy rain. Many others are feared to be trapped beneath the debris. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that numerous rescuers and trekkers have been deployed to search for survivors, but harsh weather conditions have hindered their efforts. Medical teams have also been sent to assist the injured. Search operations were temporarily suspended due to heavy rainfall and the potential for further landslides, but resumed on Friday. The National Disaster Response Force reported that ten individuals have been hospitalized and 75 people have been rescued, although it is unclear how many remain trapped. The landslide occurred in Irshalwadi village, burying 17 of the 50 houses. The hilly terrain poses a challenge for rescuers, as heavy equipment cannot easily access the area. Maharashtra has been placed on alert due to incessant rains, which have disrupted daily life and prompted the closure of schools in Mumbai. Local train services have also been affected, with water inundating stations and tracks. This monsoon season has already seen a 2% increase in rainfall compared to average levels. India frequently experiences severe floods during the monsoon season, which is crucial for rain-fed crops but often results in extensive damage. Scientists attribute the increasing frequency of landslides and flash floods to climate change.