Congress Leaders Launch Housing Initiative for Wayanad Landslide Survivors
In a significant move to aid disaster recovery, Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra laid the foundation stone for homes that the Congress party will construct for survivors of the devastating Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslide. The ceremony, held in Kozhikode, marks the beginning of a project aimed at providing permanent shelter to those affected by the tragedy.
Project Details and Scale
The housing project is located at Kunnambetta in Meppadi panchayat and involves the construction of 100 houses. Each home will measure 1,100 square feet and be built on eight cents of land. To facilitate this, the party has purchased 3.25 acres and is currently in the process of acquiring an additional 2.18 acres. Negotiations are also underway to secure another five acres, ensuring adequate space for the development.
Leaders' Addresses and Emotional Tributes
Addressing the gathering, Rahul Gandhi praised the resilience of the Wayanad community, stating, "You lost and lost, but you never lost your spirit. You never lost your courage and, more importantly, you never lost the compassion for others." He emphasized that the housing project symbolizes the party's commitment to stand with survivors throughout their recovery and healing process. "For us, it is not a one-day event that happened. Because you are our family, we are going to stand with you whenever you need us," he added.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed these sentiments, vowing to remain with the disaster-affected people until they fully rebuild their lives. She reflected on the tragedy, saying, "What I saw that day will never leave me. You lost everything – your homes, your families, shops, businesses, everything. But what struck me most was your courage, your pride, the way every single person here did whatever they could to help you." She highlighted the community's unity, noting how people stood together regardless of religion or background, offering courage and love in times of need.
Addressing Delays and Financial Support
On the delay in initiating the project work, Priyanka expressed regret, explaining that it was due to necessary clearances and land-related issues. Despite the setbacks, progress is now underway. In a gesture of immediate relief, she handed over Rs 5 lakh each to 40 traders who lost their shops in the disaster, providing crucial financial assistance to help restart their livelihoods.
Event Leadership and Attendees
The event was presided over by KPCC chief Sunny Joseph, with notable speeches from AICC general secretaries KC Venugopal and Deepa Dasmunshi, as well as IUML general secretary P K Kunhalikutty. Several other party leaders also addressed the function, underscoring the collective effort to support the Wayanad community in overcoming the aftermath of the landslide.
