<p>Torrential rains pounded Pettimudi in Rajamala in the high range Idukki district, triggering a landslide early Friday morning with several estate workers of a tea plantation feared trapped.</p>.<p>Communication links to the area have been affected as the power lines have snapped in the rains.</p>.<p>At least 70 people are suspected to be trapped under soil, burying nearly 20 houses of plantation workers.</p>.<p>Police and Fire service personnel have rushed to the spot and the district administration has asked hospitals in the region to stay prepared.</p>.<p>The India Meteorological Department has sounded a red alert in the region.</p>.<p>In Ernakulam district, as the water level in the Periyar river rose, the famous Shiva temple on the river bank has been almost submerged.</p>.<p>Shutters of various dams have also been opened causing water level in the Periyar river to rise.</p>
<p>Torrential rains pounded Pettimudi in Rajamala in the high range Idukki district, triggering a landslide early Friday morning with several estate workers of a tea plantation feared trapped.</p>.<p>Communication links to the area have been affected as the power lines have snapped in the rains.</p>.<p>At least 70 people are suspected to be trapped under soil, burying nearly 20 houses of plantation workers.</p>.<p>Police and Fire service personnel have rushed to the spot and the district administration has asked hospitals in the region to stay prepared.</p>.<p>The India Meteorological Department has sounded a red alert in the region.</p>.<p>In Ernakulam district, as the water level in the Periyar river rose, the famous Shiva temple on the river bank has been almost submerged.</p>.<p>Shutters of various dams have also been opened causing water level in the Periyar river to rise.</p>