Relentless downpours and howling winds hampered Wednesday's search for the survivors of landslides that struck Indian tea plantations and killed at least 243 people, local media Asianet reported.

Days of torrential monsoon rains have battered the southern coastal state of Kerala, with blocked roads into Wayanad district complicating relief efforts. 

The only bridge connecting the worst-hit villages of Chooralmala and Mundakkai was washed away, forcing rescue teams to carry bodies on stretchers out of the disaster zone using a makeshift zip line erected over raging flood waters.

The landslide hit the area early on Tuesday. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent condolences and vowed to provide support in the aftermath of the disaster. 

(With input from AFP)