Wayanad | A total of 51 landslide survivor families in Kerala’s Wayanad have received fully constructed houses, marking a fresh start to their lives under an IUML-led rehabilitation initiative.
The Indian Union Muslim League is a key partner in the Congress-led UDF.
The families, who were displaced by the devastating Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslide disaster two years ago, received the new homes at Vellithode in Thrikkaipatta in the district.
Many of the families had already shifted to their new houses, and a formal ceremony in this regard was held on Monday evening.
Prominent leaders of the IUML, including its chief Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal, were present at the event.
Senior IUML leader P K Kunhalikutty said the house-warming ceremony had already been held in the morning in accordance with the beliefs of the beneficiaries.
“They have come through great sorrow. Today, we witnessed their happiness. I am glad that we could do at least this much for them,” a visibly emotional Kunhalikutty said during the function.
He also noted that the successful completion of the first phase of the project is a testament to the collective spirit of the people.
Prayers in accordance with the religious beliefs of the beneficiaries were also held as part of the function.
IUML sources said each residence is thoughtfully designed with three bedrooms, a kitchen, and modern amenities, ensuring that survivors can rebuild their lives with security and comfort.
Work is already progressing on additional units to reach the final goal of 105 houses, which will eventually include a community hall, an Anganwadi, and a park, they said.
The party leadership also shared videos on social media showing beneficiaries from different religions conducting house-warming ceremonies in accordance with their respective beliefs.
Departing from traditional collection methods, the IUML launched a dedicated mobile application to facilitate a large-scale crowdfunding campaign, a party statement added.
In March this year, the Kerala government handed over new homes to 178 survivor families, nearly two years after the devastating Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslide.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had inaugurated the first phase of the Wayanad Model Township constructed at Elton Estate on March 1, marking the end of a long period of displacement for families who had been living in rented and temporary accommodation.
