Wayanad Rehabilitation to be Implemented in Three Phases

Cabinet Subcommittee Announces Comprehensive Plan

The rehabilitation efforts for those affected by the recent disaster in Wayanad will be executed in three distinct phases, according the Cabinet Subcommittee. The first phase will focus on the temporary rehabilitation of those currently residing in relief camps. Revenue Minister K Rajan, speaking at a press conference, outlined that individuals willing to stay with relatives will receive necessary support, while others will be provided with rental accommodations or other facilities at the government’s expense. The government plans to utilize government-controlled buildings and facilities for temporary housing, ensuring all necessary amenities are available. A special team will be appointed to oversee the provision of these amenities to those temporarily rehabilitated. In the second phase, the government will establish interim transit homes as a precursor to permanent housing solutions. Prefabricated technology will be employed to construct these homes at suitable locations identified for the purpose. The final phase will involve the development of a comprehensive township project, equipped with all necessary amenities for complete rehabilitation, the Minister added.

Mental well-being

In addition to housing, the government is taking steps to ensure the mental well-being of the affected individuals. Professional counselling services will be made available to those in need, with 136 counsellors already providing their services across various camps. The state government is also addressing financial concerns. An emergency meeting of the State-Level Banking Committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary, has been convened to discuss the repayment of bank loans. The Minister urged private financial institutions to halt collection activities from those staying in relief camps during this crisis. Local representatives and disaster-affected individuals will be included in teams assigned to gather information from the six zones into which the disaster-hit areas have been divided. The process is nearing completion. Additionally, national cabinet teams are expected to inspect the affected areas, and all necessary information has been shared with them.

A team of experts from the State Disaster Management Authority will conduct a detailed study of the geographical conditions in the landslide-affected areas of Mundakkai, Churalmala, Attamala, and Punchirimattam. The team, comprising representatives from geology, hydrology, soil conservation, and hazard analysis sectors, will submit a comprehensive report. The Minister revealed that a draft list of 138 missing persons has already been published, expressing hope that this number will decrease following the completion of DNA testing and blood sample Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas called on the central government to declare the Wayanad disaster a national disaster and allocate funds accordingly. He highlighted past instances where disasters with fewer casualties received such recognition and financial support. The Minister also urged the public to avoid spreading propaganda that could undermine the confidence of the affected communities, stressing the unity and resolve of everyone involved in overcoming this catastrophe.