Thu Mar 27 14:16:09 UTC 2025: **Kerala Launches Model Township for Landslide Survivors Amidst Funding Challenges**

KALPETTA, KERALA – March 27, 2025 – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated a model township for survivors of the devastating Chooralmala-Mundakkai landslides in Wayanad, highlighting the state’s resilience and the outpouring of public support in the face of limited central government assistance. The project, located on the Elstone Tea Estates, will provide housing and support to 402 beneficiaries.

The Chief Minister emphasized the unity of the Keralite people, stating that despite financial hardships following years of floods and a pandemic, the state managed to fund a significant portion of the rehabilitation efforts. He criticized the central government for providing only a repayable loan and no other financial aid. However, Mr. Vijayan announced significant contributions from various sources, including ₹20 crore from Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, ₹10 crore from the National Service Scheme, and funds from the Democratic Youth Federation of India, all dedicated to building homes for the survivors. Individual donations, ranging from the wealthy to children donating their savings, also contributed substantially. A new portal, https://wayanadtownship.kerala.gov.in/, has been launched to facilitate further contributions.

Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed the criticism of the central government’s lack of substantial financial support, calling the assistance “negligible.” Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan urged the timely completion of the rehabilitation works.

Revenue Minister K. Rajan stated that the project, utilizing land acquired from Elstone and Nedumpala Estates, aims to recover the losses suffered by the survivors, except for the irreplaceable loss of life. He added that delays were caused by legal challenges from estate owners. The 1,000 sq ft homes will feature two bedrooms, a bathroom, living/dining areas, kitchen, and study. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the financial year, overseen by four committees. Mr. Rajan clarified that the housing project is only one aspect of the broader rehabilitation efforts, with additional support planned for medical treatment and higher education.

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