The Union authorities knowledgeable Kerala that the Wayanad landslides of July 30 can’t be declared a nationwide calamity, and expressed the view that ample funds can be found with the state for reduction operations.
The state authorities had sought help of Rs 900 crore from the Centre in direction of the reduction and rehabilitation of the individuals affected by the tragedy, which killed 231 and left 47 others nonetheless lacking. Round 900 households have been displaced because of the landslides, leaving three hamlets almost abandoned.
“Below the present provisions of SDRF/NDRF, there isn’t any provision to declare any calamity as nationwide catastrophe,” Union Minister of State for Dwelling Affairs Nityanand Rai mentioned in a letter to Kerala authorities’s particular consultant in Delhi, Ok V Thomas.
The Union minister mentioned main accountability for catastrophe administration rests with the state. “I want to say that an quantity of Rs 388 crore has been allotted to Kerala for 2024-25. The primary instalment of Rs 145.60 crore was launched on July 31 and the second instalment of Rs 145.60 crore on October 1. Moreover, the Accountant Normal, Kerala, has reported a stability of Rs 394.99 crore in SDRF account as on April 1, this yr. Thus, ample funds can be found within the SDRF account for reduction operations,” the letter mentioned.
A central authorities crew had visited the landslide-affected areas and based mostly on a report from the crew, the Centre had taken motion as per the established process, the letter mentioned.
