The flood-affected state of Kerala in India has established a special unit named 'Help for Wayanad' within the state government to oversee relief and rehabilitation operations in regions devastated by the catastrophic event. To date, 219 fatalities have been confirmed due to extensive landslides triggered by heavy rains in Kerala's Wayanad district throughout the current monsoon period. Specifically, 98 men, 90 women, and 31 children have been officially reported deceased. Over 200 individuals remain unaccounted for. The 'Help for Wayanad' unit aims to consolidate global contributions from Indian expatriates, including offers to donate land for the resettlement of displaced persons, commitments to construct emergency housing, and monetary donations to the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund. Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, has authorized officials from the State's Finance Department with enhanced powers to expedite relief efforts for survivors of landslides and building collapses. This new unit has also launched an email address to solicit recommendations, particularly from Indian nationals abroad, regarding relief and rehabilitation initiatives in Wayanad.
Text: Lara Palmer
04.08.2024
Special unit coordinates global aid for rehabilitation in flood-hit Wayanad district