Kalpetta: The houses built for beneficiaries in Phase 1 of the Mundakkai–Chooralmala township are now ready for occupancy. The first-phase handover process is underway, with inspection of seven houses in Cluster A of Zone 3 recently completed by officials of Kifcon and the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS), in the presence of beneficiaries. This marks the completion of all three phases of inspection for these homes.

The surviving families will be able to move in at any time. On arrival, formal procedures will be completed and keys handed over. However, the beneficiaries have stated that they do not intend to move in individually and instead plan to hold a joint housewarming ceremony for all 178 families included in Phase 1.

On Tuesday, the houses of Valliyamma, Kadeesa, Seythalavi, Jaisil, Abdul Rahman, Muthukumaaran and C. Ali were made ready for occupancy. Following inspection, all seven families were briefed in one of the township houses on construction standards and quality.

The beneficiaries also raised a request for metal to be laid in courtyard areas to prevent mud splashing during rain. Officials said the request would be considered.

Authorities confirmed that construction of all 178 houses in Phase 1 has been completed, with only minor finishing works remaining. In the coming days, more beneficiaries will be called in on a cluster basis for the third phase of inspection. ULCCS Chief Operating Officer Arun Babu said the inspection process is expected to be completed within two weeks.

Electricity and water connections completed

Electricity and water supply have now been provided to all 178 houses being handed over in the first phase of the township, constructed for the rehabilitation of victims of the Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslide. A connection from the Kerala Water Authority has also been made to a 9.5 lakh litre-capacity storage tank.

Electricity connections to all houses have been completed, along with connections to the sewage treatment plant. Construction of cluster roads is also progressing, with work on the cement-treated base and interlocking currently underway. Drainage system works are likewise in progress.

Most supporting infrastructure for the 178 houses has now been completed, with final steps being taken to make the homes fully ready for occupancy. The second and third phases of inspection are currently in progress, with the third phase featuring beneficiary participation having begun on Tuesday.