Kerala likely to seek Rs 900 crore Union aid for Wayanad landslide survivors

The Kerala government is poised to request nearly Rs 900 crore from the Union government to support the rehabilitation of survivors affected by the devastating landslides in Wayanad district.

This figure encompasses an estimated Rs 600 crore needed for the development of a new township and associated facilities, with the remaining amount addressing material losses and other urgent needs.

The landslides, which struck in the early hours of July 30, buried entire neighbourhoods in the Meppadi panchayat under a layer of debris. Areas such as Mundakkai and Chooralmala were particularly hard hit.

Initially, 729 families were displaced and sheltered in relief camps. Currently, only 219 families remain in these camps, while others have relocated to rented accommodations or are staying with relatives. The state has estimated the material damages at Rs 281 crore, based on the guidelines of the State Disaster Response Fund.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has outlined a plan to develop a township designed to offer world-class facilities. This initiative is informed by global architectural inputs and aims to provide a sustainable and resilient urban environment. The proposed township would feature elements such as terraced farming models and elevated housing to mitigate risks from soil erosion and waterlogging.

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assurance during his visit to the affected areas on August 10, the Union government has committed to meeting Kerala’s financial needs once a detailed memorandum is presented. Modi emphasized that funding would not hinder ongoing relief efforts.

In parallel, a five-member expert team led by retired geologist John Mathai has identified five suitable sites for the proposed townships. The team, which studied areas within the landslide-affected villages, evaluated 24 initial sites before selecting the most viable options.

The chosen locations avoid steep inclines and are situated near Meppadi town, approximately 13 kilometres from the disaster zone. The team is also expected to provide insights into the main causes of the landslides.

As part of its immediate relief efforts, the Kerala government has disbursed compensation to the families of the deceased. A total of Rs 6 lakh has been allocated to the next-of-kin of each victim, comprising Rs 4 lakh from the State Disaster Relief Fund and Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund. Emergency financial assistance of Rs 10,000 has been given to 691 families, with an additional Rs 10,000 provided to the families of 172 deceased individuals for funeral expenses.

However, the Kerala High Court has recently criticised banks for deducting EMI payments from the compensation funds of survivors. The court expressed concern over the lack of empathy and compassion shown by banks, particularly the Kerala Gramin Bank, which was reported to have engaged in such practices.

The court has urged the state government to investigate these actions and take appropriate measures to ensure that compensation is used solely for its intended purpose.