UDF leader Satheesan stressed that Kerala, often touted as a “knowledge society,” should leverage global scientific knowledge to manage natural disaster impacts. He emphasized that future developmental projects must incorporate climate change considerations. The opposition also suggested creating a law for the rehabilitation of disaster victims, with Satheesan reporting a positive response from Chief Minister Vijayan on this proposal.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has committed to constructing 100 houses for victims, and the state government plans to coordinate with the opposition once land for the project is secured. Satheesan proposed a township model for the new homes to promote community living and suggested tailored micro-level rehabilitation packages to address the diverse needs of affected families.
The opposition also called for a special rehabilitation package for Vilangad, which experienced severe damage from 24 landslides, and a complete waiver of loans for those who lost everything. They recommended regulating quarrying activities in disaster-prone areas and conducting audits to prevent exacerbating the risks.
The landslides on July 30 have resulted in 231 deaths and over 118 missing in Wayanad and Vilangad, with significant damage reported in these regions.
