23 soldiers among 34 dead in massive landslide in India’s Manipur

Imphal - At least 34 people, including 23 soldiers, were confirmed dead in a massive landslide in Manipur's Noni district late Wednesday night.

According to Indian media reports, a large-scale landslide occurred at a regional military camp in the northeastern state of Manipur, where about 50 people are feared to be buried under the rubble.

The accident happened after a landslide at a railway construction site in Nooni, where workers were sleeping in a makeshift camp.

It is reported that Indian troops were stationed near Topol railway station to protect the train line under construction in the wake of the insurgency.

On the other hand, despite heavy rains, the search continues, with more than 200 rescuers and security personnel using state-of-the-art equipment to evacuate people.  However, authorities fear that people are unlikely to survive.

At least 23 members of the armed forces were among the confirmed dead, while five Indian Railways personnel were also missing.

Causalities expected to rise as scores of people still missing on second day of rescue operations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured all possible cooperation from the central government.  He also offered condolences to the victims and prayers for the injured and missing.

Large-scale landslides are common in northeastern India, while landslides are followed by heavy rains.  Monsoon rains have wreaked havoc in several Indian states, killing hundreds and dispersing thousands.