Landslide strikes residential area during cyclone, leaving multiple trapped
by Surya PrakashA devastating landslide has struck the lower slopes of a hill in the temple town, leaving seven people from two families, including children, feared trapped inside a house. The landslide is believed to have been triggered by the heavy rainfall that battered the district throughout Sunday as a result of Cyclone Fengal.
The incident took place on Arunachala Hill in Tiruvannamalai district, Tamil Nadu, in southern India on December 1.
Visuals show water gushing down fiercely, resulting from the relentless rain that caused the landslide. The muddy water rushes down the lower hill slope, leaving residents unable to leave their homes.
According to reports, a large rock situated above the houses in the area is causing concern, and the district administration is awaiting the arrival of NDRF and SDRF teams to begin rescue operations. District Collector D. Baskara Pandian stated that it is believed two couples and their three children are trapped, as they have not been located. The incident took place on Sunday evening when the landslide struck VOC Nagar, at the foothills of the Annamalaiyar Hills, damaging several houses.
Pandian added that the situation is perilous due to the large rock above the houses, which could pose further danger if not handled properly during the rescue operation. Several nearby homes have also been damaged, and the residents have been relocated to safety.