A Dubai-based businessman has committed to constructing 50 homes for families impacted by the recent catastrophic landslides in Wayanad district, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. PNC Menon, the founder and chairman of Sobha Group, expressed in a statement to Khaleej Times on Friday: “In this time of crisis, we extend our support to the people of Wayanad. Our commitment to build 50 homes is intended to offer both immediate assistance and sustained support to the affected families.” Over 300 people were reportedly killed in landslides that devastated tea estates and villages in southern India's Kerala on Tuesday. As people slept, unexpected heavy rainfall caused hillsides to collapse, unleashing torrents of mud, water, and boulders.
Several UAE residents and businessmen swiftly stepped forward to aid the survivors. Shajahan Kuttiyath, a Dubai resident originally from Wayanad who lost nearly 100 relatives in the landslide, informed Khaleej Times that he and his friends have commenced relief efforts. Chairman and managing director of LuLu Group, MA Yusuff Ali, and B. Ravi Pillai, chairman of the RP Group, each contributed approximately Dh2 million to the distress relief fund. VPS Healthcare and Aster DM Healthcare also made donations.
Menon, who also conveyed his condolences for the lives lost, stated that “the selection process for the beneficiary families will be based on fair criteria, ensuring that the aid reaches those most in need”. The construction of 50 homes in Wayanad will complement the 1,000 houses that Sobha Group is already building for underprivileged families in Palakkad district in Kerala. The construction and funding of these homes will be managed through the Sri Kurumba Educational and Charitable Trust.
