Kerala CM Announces Relief Measures for Landslide Victims

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday announced substantial relief measures for the victims of the recent landslides in Wayanad district, which claimed over 200 lives.

Among the key announcements, Vijayan declared a compensation of Rs six lakh for the next of kin of the deceased, with Rs four lakh provided from the State Disaster Relief Fund and the remaining from the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF). He also allocated Rs 75,000 from the CMDRF for those who lost eyes or limbs, or suffered disabilities up to 60 per cent.

In addition, Vijayan announced a compensation of Rs 50,000 for those suffering disabilities between 40 and 60 per cent or very serious injuries. Survivors opting for rented accommodation or living with relatives will receive Rs 6,000 per month towards rent, with this amount not available to those with rent-free or fully sponsored accommodation. A drone-based LIDAR survey will further assess the disaster-stricken areas for future use.

(With inputs from agencies.)