THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: During a press conference, Minister K. Rajan announced that the finalised list for the first phase of building houses for Wayanad disaster victims includes 242 people. Additionally, 81 people are slated to benefit in the second phase, with the complete list expected by Friday.

The minister clarified that this list does not represent those who lost their lives in the disaster, but individuals requiring new homes after losing theirs. The District Disaster Management Authority, in collaboration with local panchayats, prepared this list, independent of the government.

A separate list of 16 individuals is being created under the “2B” category, focusing on entirely isolated homes. A final decision on this list will be made within two weeks. Hearings will take place on the 10th, 11th, and 12th to determine whether the listed individuals need houses or compensation.

Further, the minister announced:

• The existing ₹300 monthly allowance for disaster victims will continue for an additional nine months.
• A Supplyco-issued card will allow disaster victims to purchase ₹1,000 worth of goods monthly.
• Steps will be taken to reinstate operations for around 600 jeeps in Chooralmala, as running these vehicles was the sole source of income for many residents.