Wayanad township: Pinarayi Vijayan lays foundation stone, slams Centre for inadequate funds

Wayanad: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday laid the foundation stone for a model township aimed at rehabilitating those affected by the devastating landslide that struck the Chooralmala and Mundakkai regions of Wayanad last year. The project aims to provide permanent housing and infrastructure for the victims, eight months after the disaster.

Speaking at the event, Vijayan stressed the state's ongoing challenges, particularly about the central government's lack of financial support.

“No financial assistance has been received from the Centre till date for the Wayanad landslide victims' rehabilitation...Kerala only received an insufficient amount as a loan for the rehabilitation work,” Vijayan stated.

The township will be developed on government-acquired land in Elston Estate, Kalpetta, covering 64 hectares along the Kalpetta bypass. The development plan includes 1,000 square feet single-storeyed houses built on seven-cent plots. These houses will be constructed with a foundation that can later support a two-story structure.

The design of the houses will include two rooms, a sitting room, a living room, study room, dining room, kitchen, and a storage area. A health center will be built, with a laboratory, pharmacy, examination-vaccination-observation rooms, a minor operation theater, and OP ticket counter facilities. The project will also include an anganwadi, a public market, shops, stalls, and a children’s play area, with parking facilities available for residents and visitors.

Furthermore, roads within the township will be constructed to modern standards, ensuring ease of access throughout the area. A community center will also be established, equipped with a multi-purpose hall, playground, library, sports club, and an open-air theater. 

The construction of the township is being managed by the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society, with an expected completion date of December 2025.

The landslide that struck the Mundakkai and Chooralmala regions on July 30, 2024, was one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent years. Over 200 lives were lost, and many others were injured. The tragedy displaced thousands, making the rehabilitation efforts all the more urgent.

Congress MP from Wayanad, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, was present at the event, offering her support for the project and the ongoing recovery efforts.