Kerala Government Focuses on Scientific Approaches to Mitigate Landslides

The Kerala government is prioritizing scientific land use and localized early warning systems to tackle future disasters like the Wayanad landslides. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan aims to enhance climate research institutes, improve weather forecasting, and create new townships for affected families. The rehabilitation plan focuses on human-centered growth and societal resilience.

The Kerala government has initiated measures to implement scientific land use and localized early warning systems aimed at mitigating future disasters like the devastating Wayanad landslides. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the land forecasting systems are currently in their infancy. The government is determined to enhance the state's climate change research institutes by providing them with modern equipment and increased manpower.

Over 230 lives were lost in the worst-ever disaster that destroyed large parts of three villages in Wayanad. Speaking to PTI, Vijayan emphasized the importance of balancing ecological fragility with societal aspirations and legal boundaries in the context of climate change.

The government has built relief shelters in 18 coastal local governments and seven hill panchayats and aims to increase these numbers. Kerala is seeking financial assistance to strengthen its Institute of Climate Change Studies and has requested the central government to set up research centers for rapid advancement in landslide forecasting. Additionally, new townships will be created for the rehabilitation of victims and survivors, prioritizing human-centered growth and social welfare.

(With inputs from agencies.)