On July 30, 2024, Kerala had an unforgettable night. The villages of Mundakkai and Chooralmala in Wayanad disappeared into the Chaliyar river by dawn. Over 400 lives were lost, and twice as many families were left destitute by the devastating flood, which was even more catastrophic than the great floods of previous years. This disaster was identified as one of the 32 extraordinary climate-related events reported globally in 2024, marking it as a direct indicator of climate change. Although Kerala, including Wayanad, has reported several landslide disasters in the past, it can be stated that nothing of this scale had ever occurred before. The estimated economic loss was ₹1,200 crore. Immediate efforts were made to reclaim the lost villages and provide a new life for the survivors, and these efforts have been ongoing ever since. Kerala has united in the past for disaster-affected areas, similar solidarity was demonstrated for the villages in Meppadi. When a united effort was mobilised for these villages, it became one of the best models of rehabilitation work seen in the state. Building on this mission, the state government announced two township projects for resettlement during the last week of December. The projects aim to provide homes to libraries, ensuring strong support and cooperation from all involved. Despite numerous challenges, the government has made progress toward this dream project. The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the first township the other day, with thousands of survivors as witnesses. This event while turning into a gathering symbolising unity between the ruling and opposition parties also became a noble political message.
The first township is being constructed at the Elston Estate in Kalpetta. The project, which will include 430 houses, is targeted for completion within the next financial year. It will also feature hospitals, schools, playgrounds, community centres, and libraries, all to be completed in a single phase, as previously announced. The government has stated that construction agencies will be engaged for the project, and a supervisory committee will monitor progress at various stages. If implemented effectively, the reunion of the survivors can be ensured within a specific timeframe. The estimated cost for the two townships is ₹750 crore. A significant portion of the funding has come from contributions by ordinary citizens, as well as the generous financial support of various organisations. This project is moving forward with the collective support and cooperation of all sections of society, and the government has reaffirmed its commitment to this cause. During a recent event, the Chief Minister emphasised the unity of the people as the driving force behind the rehabilitation project. He stated, "The strength of the unity of our people has brought us to the beginning of this rehabilitation project. With the heartfelt cooperation of the people, what seems impossible can be made possible, and this is the best example of that." The opposition leader clarified that this matter transcends politics and also assured full support. This statement turned the township project into an exemplary model of survival.
In such a project the central government naturally should have a defined role and partnership. Unfortunately, that did not happen. The demand to declare the landslide a national disaster was also rejected by the Centre. A request was submitted for emergency assistance of ₹2,000 crore from the central government, but it was not granted. Instead, a loan of ₹529 crore was approved, which was seen by most as an insult. In a way this is not surprising. Over the past 10 years, Kerala has not received any substantial assistance from the central government, nor has it been granted its rightful tax allocation. As many pointed out earlier, the Modi government has imposed economic sanctions against the state. In this context, it became clear that waiting for the central government was not an option and this was what prompted the state government to initiate a people's project on its own. The Opposition also, being seized of this reality, cooperated, making the path to the survivors' dreams easier. However, some obstacles remain. Issues related to the preparation of the beneficiary list have not been fully resolved. There are other uncertainties as well. But with the unity in place now, all these challenges can surely be overcome. May this dream project become a reality without delay.
