Wayanad: Delays in repairing cracked houses in landslide-hit Chooralmala and the slow pace of handing over rehabilitation housing have triggered concern in Wayanad, with the district administration stepping in to fast-track works ahead of the monsoon.
The Wayanad landslide disaster, triggered by relentless monsoon rains in the high-range regions of the district, left widespread devastation in areas such as Mundakkai and Chooralmala on July 30, 2024.
Over 200 people lost their lives, with several others reported missing, as massive landslips buried homes, destroyed infrastructure, and displaced entire communities.
Following this, the Kerala government stepped in to rehabilitate the people. However, it’s at the project site that cracks have been reported in government-built houses at Chooralmala. This has drawn sharp criticism from a few quarters and those who fear that construction delays could compromise safety.
The District Collector has directed that there should be no lapses in relief and rehabilitation measures.
Scientific repair work, including cement grouting, is currently underway to seal structural cracks.
However, adverse weather and shortage of labour have slowed progress.
After a site inspection, the Collector warned that at the current pace, repairs may not be completed before the onset of heavy rains, prompting a high-level meeting with officials from the Revenue, Geology and Public Works Departments.
The delays have forced many affected families to continue living in relief camps and rented homes. “It has been days since repairs began, but the work is still incomplete. If rains intensify, fear will return,” residents said.
At the same time, survivors of the Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslide have demanded that houses being built for them at the government township in Elston Estate be handed over by May 20.
In Phase One, 178 houses are under construction, but only 40 have been made ready so far.
Though keys and land titles were distributed on March 1 with assurances that occupancy would begin before Vishu (April 15), pending infrastructure works have delayed relocation.
Survivors have made it clear they will shift only after all houses in the phase are fully ready.
Work on sewage treatment plants and drinking water pipelines is still in progress, with 10 plants planned across five zones. Finishing works are ongoing in multiple zones.
With the monsoon approaching, survivors have aired their apprehensions that any further delay will worsen their living conditions.
Adding to their concerns, monthly financial assistance of Rs 9,000 each for 1,184 beneficiaries remains pending, while food coupons have yet to be distributed.
(IANS)
