In a significant move towards disaster recovery, the Central Government has approved the release of ₹120 crore for immediate rehabilitation efforts in Wayanad, following the catastrophic landslides on July 30, 2024, that claimed over 200 lives.
This crucial decision came after the Kerala High Court urged the Centre to relax the norms of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). The Court recommended utilizing funds previously allocated for airlift charges from 2006, 2016, and 2017 to expedite relief measures.
Additional Solicitor General A R L Sundaresan presented an official letter from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Disaster Management Division on January 2, confirming the fund release. The Court highlighted that this fund reallocation would empower the Kerala government to tap into additional resources such as the MP Local Area Development Funds and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for comprehensive recovery and rebuilding.
To ensure swift and effective implementation, the Kerala High Court has scheduled the next hearing on January 16 to review the progress of the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.
This financial boost marks a vital step in rebuilding Wayanad and supporting affected communities in their journey towards recovery.
