Wayanad rehabilitation: Micro-level package is needed, all loans should be written off; Opposition submits set of proposals

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The opposition on Tuesday presented Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan with a series of proposals, including the waiving off of all loans of the victims of the Wayanad disaster and the announcement of a special package for Kozhikode's Vilangad, which was devastated by a landslide. Opposition Leader VD Satheesan held a discussion with the Chief Minister regarding the rehabilitation of people in the landslide-hit regions.

Proposals put forward by UDF

In Wayanad, a township model should be implemented in place of the customary provision of homes and land to make community living possible. People who got scattered from the villages should be brought together. The agricultural sector should also be assisted. All types of loans, including education loans, issued by public sector, private and cooperative banks should be written off.

Some families have only adults remaining, while others have only children. A micro-level package should be implemented considering each family separately. Due to the recurrence of disasters, proper warning systems should be put in place.

Completely ruined and uninhabitable houses in Vilangad should be reconstructed. Agricultural loans should be written off. Teak farmers should be compensated for their losses. Bridges washed away in the landslides, damaged roads and the dilapidated bridge in Vilangad should be reconstructed.

Govt ready to hold discussion with opposition

VD Satheesan said that the government has agreed to negotiate with the opposition if it finds the land for the 100 houses promised by Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad.

"We will work with the government in rehabilitation activities. Studies and auditing are required in matters such as quarrying. The UDF meeting to be held on the 19th will discuss the issue of Mullaperiyar and announce its position," Satheesan said.