The 51 houses constructed by the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) as part of the first phase of a rehabilitation initiative for the families affected by the landslide at Chooralmala in Wayanad district were handed over to the selected beneficiaries on Saturday.
IUML State president Panakkad Syed Sadikali Shibab Thangal handed over the keys at the function held at Vellithode near Thrikkaipetta in Wayanad. Sharada, one of the new house owners, accepted the first key.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Thangal said the unity of people to resolve the distress of people who were hit by the landslide was laudable. He said the IUML could reaffirm its identity, unity and support through the Chooralmala rehabilitation project.
“Nobody asked the beneficiaries’ religion or caste. All the victims were badly in need of help which we could provide without any discrimination,” said Mr. Thangal. Urging the residents to spread harmony and love at the new spot, he said it should emerge as a model for the State.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, MP, who was the guest of honour at the inaugural event said it was a “monumental effort” by the IUML along with the efforts of the State government and the Congress party for the rehabilitation of the victims’ families. “I am proud that every party in Kerala did their best to fulfil the promises given to support the needy,” she said.
“I had been to many locations where natural disasters created chaotic situations. However, it was for the first time that an organised and efficient team of volunteers took over the whole task and extended support to the suffering people. I am truly proud of the work done by the White Guard volunteers,” said Ms. Vadra. She also lauded the efforts to uphold communal harmony and secularism while implementing each rehabilitation initiative.
IUML national secretary P.K. Kunhalikutty presided over the inaugural function. Senior IUML leaders E.T. Mohammed Basheer, M.P. Abdussamad Samadani and P.K. Abdu Rabb were present among others at the function. Architect Tony Joseph who extended free service for the rehabilitation scheme was honoured on the occasion. P.K. Basheer, MLA, presented the project report.
IUML functionaries said the rehabilitation project on completion would ensure homes to 105 beneficiaries in the already purchased 11.5 acres of land in Meppadi panchayat. The project was designed in such a way to ensure a 1060-sqft house with three bedrooms and other basic facilities in eight cents of land for each family.
A senior IUML functionary said the party had mobilised about ₹37 crore for the rehabilitation scheme of which ₹30 crore had already been spent. A sum of ₹26 lakh was spent for the construction of one home, he said.
Published – February 28, 2026 07:11 pm IST
