India: Landslide in Mumbai following heavy monsoon rains – at least six dead

Mumbai (India), 12 August (LaPresse/AP) – A landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rains swept away several homes at dawn today in a densely populated neighbourhood of Mumbai, India’s financial capital, killing at least six people and injuring four, according to local authorities. The landslide occurred in the Ghatkopar neighbourhood, on the outskirts of the city, when part of a hillside collapsed onto two or three homes in an area characterised by houses built very close together. A rescue operation was immediately launched involving the fire service, police, the National Disaster Response Force and municipal officials. However, operations were hampered by the narrow access roads, which prevented the use of heavy machinery. Rescuers pulled at least ten people from the rubble and transported them to a public hospital. Six of them, including two children and two teenagers, were pronounced dead on arrival. A further four people are in hospital and receiving treatment. The Mayor of Mumbai, Ritu Tawde, visited the area and announced financial compensation for the victims’ families. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast a further intensification of the monsoon in western India, and the authorities have urged residents in areas prone to flooding and landslides to remain vigilant.