Representational Image l Photo: Akhil ES/ Mathrubhumi
Kozhikode: The Elder Line project formed to aid senior citizens remains redundant due to lack of funds. The power connection at the Poojappura office was disconnected as the authorities did not pay the electricity bill arrears worth Rs 30,000.
The toll-free number ‘14567’ had been launched to resolve the complaints of elderly and provide aid during the period of Covid 19. The field staff used to visit the houses to verify the authenticity of the complaint. Over 1 lakh calls were received via this toll-free number and 6000 field activities were carried out.
The 24 employees involved in this programme include 10 call officers, seven field staff for 14 districts, a programme manager, an administrator and a quality manager.
The project came up in October 2021 ensuring financial support from the central government. Several departments of the state government and voluntary organisations also cooperated in the operations under the Elder Line project.
The services via the programme stalled from June 2022 as the financial support from the Centre stopped. The officials have requested the state government to provide immediate financial support as the aid from the Centre is likely to be delayed.