Kerala Government Approves New Townships for Landslide Victims in Wayanad
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Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 1 (NationPress) The government of Kerala has initiated a rehabilitation plan aimed at establishing two new townships for victims of the devastating landslide that occurred in Wayanad, impacting four villages in July of last year.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced that following the High Court's approval for the acquisition of two estates -- Harrison Malayalam Estate, spanning 65.41 acres in Nedumbala, Meppadi grama panchayat, and Elston Estate, encompassing 78.73 acres in Kalpetta -- the state will proceed with the development of these townships.
The landslide in July was unprecedented, resulting in the loss of 231 lives, with 47 individuals still unaccounted for. A staggering 145 residences were completely destroyed, while 170 sustained partial damage, and 240 homes were rendered uninhabitable; an additional 183 homes were washed away entirely.
Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan presented the plans for the proposed townships.
“In the Kalpetta township, each family will receive 5 cents of land and a 1000 sq ft home, along with essential public amenities. All construction will adhere to sustainable practices, and due to the region's classification as Seismic Zone 3, all buildings will be constructed using RCC models. Furthermore, there will be commercial areas within this township. In the Meppadi township, each household will be allotted 10 cents and a 1000 sq ft dwelling,” stated Muraleedharan.
CM Vijayan emphasized that work will commence promptly.
“Our vision extends beyond mere housing; it encompasses a holistic approach. The final list of beneficiaries will be finalized by January 25. Those displaced can retain ownership of their former properties, and initiatives for collective farming may be explored,” explained Vijayan.
“The new homes will be registered in the names of the beneficiaries; however, resale will not be permitted,” he added.
“Earlier today, we convened with representatives from 38 sponsoring organizations committed to building homes. Funds from these sponsorships will be allocated to a designated bank account, and a web portal will be established for sponsors to track the progress of the township developments. A dedicated officer will be appointed to oversee the implementation,” continued CM Vijayan.
He further mentioned that the exact number of homes to be constructed will be determined after a thorough assessment of the topography.
“Within three weeks, a detailed timeline for the township projects will be published, and a special officer will be designated to monitor project execution. One committee will be chaired by the chief secretary, while another will be led by the Chief Minister, the Leader of Opposition, and other stakeholders,” concluded CM Vijayan.
