51 Landslide-Hit Families in Wayanad Begin New Lives in IUML-Built Homes

In a moving example of unity and compassion, 51 families who lost their homes in the 2024 Wayanad landslide have stepped into a fresh chapter of life. Their new houses, built under a rehabilitation initiative led by the Indian Union Muslim League, were officially handed over at Muttil in Wayanad district on Monday.

The event turned into an emotional celebration as families from different religious backgrounds marked the occasion in their own ways. Hindu families performed traditional rituals and lit lamps, while others followed their respective customs. The shared moment of joy and togetherness quickly gained attention online, with many calling it a powerful reflection of Kerala’s spirit of harmony.

IUML state president Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal described the project as one driven by compassion and collective effort. Senior leader P K Kunhalikutty, who attended the ceremony, said the day symbolised a return to happiness for families who had endured immense loss. He also noted that the public had contributed not only to building the houses but also to providing furniture and daily essentials.

Each home is a thoughtfully planned single storey unit spread across about 1,060 square feet. Built on plots of eight cents, the houses include three bedrooms, a kitchen, dining area, workspace, sit out, and a paved courtyard. Families were also given household items and groceries to help them settle in quickly.

For many survivors, the moment was deeply personal. Ramya, a resident of Chooralmala, said her family had lost everything in the disaster and that the new home offered them a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity.

The entire project has been funded through public donations. The IUML purchased 11.5 acres of land in Vellithode at a cost of ₹14.13 crore. This first phase covers 51 homes, while construction on another 54 houses is underway and expected to be completed by September 2026. Beneficiaries were selected through a transparent lottery process.

While a separate government rehabilitation project for 178 families is still in progress, this initiative has moved ahead swiftly with strong community support. For the families who have now received their homes, the project stands as a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the power of collective goodwill.