Tragic accident in Wayanad claims nine lives as overcrowded jeep plunges into gorge

Eyewitnesses on the scene reported that the ill-fated jeep bearing registration number KL 11 B 5655 appeared to be overcrowded, which may have led to the accident, in which nine labourers were killed and four others, including the driver, sustained injuries.

Wayanad (Kerala): In a tragic accident near Thalappuzha of Wayanad district in Kerala, a jeep carrying tea plantation labourers veered off the road and plunged into a 25-metre deep gorge resulting in the loss of nine lives. The unfortunate accident occurred on Friday at 3.30 pm near Kannoth Mala. All the victims hailed from Wayanad district.

Eyewitnesses on the scene reported that the ill-fated jeep bearing registration number KL 11 B 5655 appeared to be overcrowded, which may have led to the accident, in which nine labourers were killed and four others, including the driver, sustained injuries. According to the police, 12 labourers were travelling in the jeep when the accident took place. According to a preliminary report, all the dead are women labourers. They were returning from a tea plantation after their work.

Seven out of nine deceased have been identified as Uma, Rani, Santha, Rabia, Chinnamma, Shaja and Leela and were residents of Kambamala, Thavinjaal Panchayat. Sources said that two were seriously injured and were admitted to Mananthawady Medical College and Hospital for treatment. All the labourers suffered serious head injuries as the accident spot was filled with rocks, sources said.

On receiving the information, local authorities and emergency services rushed to the spot and launched rescue and recovery operations. The Collector and police higher-ups, too, rushed to the spot immediately after learning about the accident.