New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday condoled the deaths due to a landslide at Rajamalai in Kerala's Idukki district due to heavy rain for the past four days and announced an ex gratia of Rs two lakh each to the next of kin of the victims.

In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister said: "Pained by the loss of lives due to a landslide in Rajamalai, Idukki. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover quickly. NDRF and the administration are working on the ground, providing assistance to the affected."

"An ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister National Relief Fund will be given to the next of kin of those who have lost their lives. Rs 50,000 each will be given to the injured."

At least 15 persons have been killed and over 60 others are reported missing after the landslide at Rajamalai late on Thursday night. The spot is about 30 km from the popular tourist destination of Munnar in Kerala.

Officials said a 200-member team of Kerala Police had reached the spot for rescue work. At the last count, 12 persons had been rescued and 15 bodies recovered.