NEW DELHI: Severe monsoon rains have triggered widespread flooding and landslides across several Indian states, leaving at least 88 people dead, displacing thousands and disrupting normal life as authorities continue rescue and relief operations.
In the southern state of Kerala, eight people were killed, eight others remained missing, and 13 were injured after heavy rain caused flash floods and landslides. More than 5,700 people have been evacuated and moved to 209 relief camps, according to state authorities.
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the government would assist the families of those killed and people who lost their homes and livelihoods.
He added that although rainfall had eased, emergency agencies remained on high alert to respond to any further deterioration in weather conditions.
The latest deaths come as India’s annual monsoon continues to batter large parts of the country. In the northeastern state of Assam, the death toll from flooding has risen to at least 80, making it one of the worst-hit regions this season.
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Heavy rainfall has also affected Gujarat, Odisha, and Himachal Pradesh, where swollen rivers, flash floods and landslides have damaged infrastructure, inundated low-lying areas and disrupted transport.
Authorities have monitored rising river levels closely, while dam spillways have been adjusted in some areas to manage the increased water flow and reduce flood risks.
India experiences heavy monsoon rainfall between June and September each year. The seasonal rains are vital for agriculture and water supplies but frequently trigger floods, landslides and large-scale displacement, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Rescue teams remain deployed across the affected states as officials continue search operations for the missing and assess the full extent of the damage.
