According to the Wayanad Public Relations Department (PRD), the landslide occurred after a large quantity of excavated earth, removed as part of the tunnel construction project, collapsed onto the site.

The PRD said three deaths have been confirmed so far, while the toll could rise as rescue operations continue.

Nine injured persons have been admitted to hospitals for treatment, while several people are reported missing. Authorities said search and rescue efforts are underway to trace those trapped under the debris.

Meanwhile, a review meeting chaired by MLA I C Balakrishnan was held at Kalladi to coordinate rescue efforts. MLA C K Asha, District Panchayat President Chandrika Krishnan, District Collector D R Meghashree, District Police Chief Deva Manohar, ADM K Ajish, Sub-Collector Athul Sagar, local elected representatives and officials attended the meeting.

Temporary shelters have been arranged at the Mundakkai Forest Station and the Chooralmala Church Hall for residents stranded on either side of the bridge. Authorities have also taken steps to ensure the safety of schoolchildren and evacuate residents from vulnerable areas, including Erattukundu, Attamala, Mammikkunnu and Ambedkar Colony.

Officials said construction work at the tunnel site had already been suspended due to heavy rainfall following earlier directions from the district administration. The Public Works Department has been directed to inspect the structural safety of the Meenakshi Bridge after the debris is cleared.