Blitz Bureau
DUBAI: Kerala Chief Minister PinarayiVijayanexpressed faith that the Indian expats would play a significant role in rebuilding the Wayanad district after the devastating floods and landslide which resulted in death and destruction on an unprecedented scale.
Speaking exclusively to Khaleej Times, Vijayan said when Wayanad’srebuiliding starts, “he is sure his brothers and sisters in the UAE will play a lead role in that process as they have always done.”
He went on to add that, “In recent times, we have seen an outpour of such help during cyclone Ockhi, previous floods and Covid. Even now, expats and their organisations are making sizeable contributions to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). Many have promised to rebuild the homes of the affected.”
Hundreds killed
On July 30 this year, some areas of Wayanaddistrict were hit with heavy rain and landslides,killing hundreds of people in one of the worst tragedies in the history of the state. According to figures released by the Chie Minister’s Office in Thiruvananthapuram, 231 dead bodies and 212 body parts were recovered, with over 100 people still reported missing.
Vijayansaid the rebuilding of Wayanadwill take a long time. “It will be a long-drawn-out process,” he said. “We have the experience of the historic floods of 2018, in which we had to envisage something as comprehensive as the Rebuild Kerala Initiative. It took a few years to be completed.”
He said the Government is still assessing the total extent of losses in Wayanad. “Once we have the complete picture, we can plan the appropriate rebuilding process,” he said, adding, “As of now, we are gearing up to construct a township with all amenities – including housing, health, education, sports and recreation – in it.”
Focus on survivors Vijayan said during the current rehabilitation phase, the Government’s focus was on assisting the survivors. Back-to-home kits and monetary helphave been provided to the displaced families.He also said the Government’s emphasis was on getting displaced students back into schools.
Vijayan called on travellers to continue visiting Wayanad to help the district recover from the disaster. “Wayanad is a stunning destination with lush landscapes and mesmerising scenic beauty,” he said.
