Wayanad's New Township: A Holistic Approach to Rehabilitation

Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has inaugurated the Wayanad Rehabilitation Project by laying its foundation stone, a major initiative spearheaded by Asia's largest labor cooperative, Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS). The project seeks to rebuild the lives of families affected by the devastating landslides on July 30, 2024, which claimed over 298 lives and displaced thousands.

The foundation stone was laid at Elston Estate in Kalpetta, in the presence of Revenue and Housing Minister K. Rajan and other distinguished guests. The project, covering 64 hectares in Kalpetta, will provide each beneficiary with seven cents of land and a 1,000-sq. ft. two-bedroom home within a modern township.

This eco-friendly, self-sustaining township integrates essential services such as housing, healthcare, education, and economic infrastructure, offering a holistic solution for the rehabilitation process. The Chief Minister described the project as a "testament to Kerala’s resilience and unity," underscoring the state's commitment to sustainable, climate-resilient development.

In support of this initiative, the Karnataka government has pledged Rs 20 crore for the construction of 100 houses, while the National Service Scheme (NSS) and the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) have each committed Rs 10 crore and Rs 20 crore, respectively, to fund 100 houses.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.