New Delhi, August 18: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) Kerala has initiated the first phase of a substantial ₹10 crore Rehabilitation Project to aid the victims of the devastating landslides in Wayanad. This ambitious effort, led by JIH Kerala President P. Mujeeburahman, reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to disaster relief and rehabilitation.
Speaking at a press conference held at the organization’s State Headquarters, Hira Centre, Mujeeburahman outlined the immediate and long-term measures planned under this project. The initiative will provide temporary shelters for vulnerable groups such as dialysis patients, bedridden individuals, and senior citizens until permanent housing solutions are arranged by the government. Additionally, the project focuses on ensuring the continuity of education for affected students, with the Wadi Rahma School in Kodiyathoor supporting primary to higher secondary education, and the Integrated Education Council of India (IECI) facilitating higher education opportunities.
JIH Kerala’s project also includes the provision of scholarships for students studying outside the district and the creation of employment opportunities to support the financial stability of the affected families. Mujeeburahman emphasized the need for timely government intervention to coordinate rehabilitation efforts and called for a social audit of all ongoing projects. He urged the Central Government to allocate an emergency relief fund in response to the Prime Minister’s visit to the disaster-hit areas and advocated for scientific studies to assess and relocate residents from disaster-prone zones in Kerala.
The landslide, which struck Wayanad on July 30, 2024, caused largescale destruction across Chooralmala, Muthanga, and Mundakkai, with Mundakkai being the hardest hit. The disaster affected approximately 47.37 km² of the Meppadi Gram Panchayat, leading to the displacement of both local residents and migrant workers. The death toll has surpassed 400, with many still missing, and the true number of casualties is feared to be between 550 and 600 as bodies remain buried under debris.
JIH Kerala, through its Ideal Relief Wing (IRW), was among the first to respond, deploying volunteers and providing essential aid, including over 500 emergency kits and 50 freezers for the preservation of bodies during the rescue operations. The organization also distributed over 500 kits to survivors relocated to government camps and offered psychological support through its Ethical Medical Forum and Student Medical Group.
As the focus shifts from rescue to rehabilitation, JIH Kerala continues to play a crucial role in the relocation of survivors, distribution of ration kits, and provision of new accommodations. The psychological impact of the landslide on survivors remains a significant concern, with many struggling to cope with the trauma. Mujeeburahman stressed the urgency of implementing mitigation measures, such as relocating people from landslide-prone areas, restricting certain land uses, and installing early warning systems to monitor ground conditions.
In concluding the press conference, Mujeeburahman reaffirmed JIH Kerala’s unwavering support for the affected communities, stating that the organization will stand by them throughout their recovery journey. The event was also addressed by State Vice President M.K. Muhammad Ali, Secretary Shihab Pookkottoor, and Relief Cell Convenor Shabeer Koduvally, who all reiterated the need for continued support and vigilance in the rehabilitation process.
