Rebuilding Hope: A Year After the Wayanad Landslide

A year has passed since a catastrophic landslide struck the Mundakkai-Chooralmala villages in Kerala's Wayanad district, leaving a path of destruction that took homes and claimed many lives. Among the survivors are children who have been grappling with the loss of their parents, yet have found solace in the support of the community and state.

In the wake of the disaster, a 15-year-old boy who lost both parents speaks with a voice of resilience. "What we lost will never come back, but we are dreaming of a new life," he said, acknowledging the aid from strangers, relatives, and the government. Meanwhile, children who lost both parents have been placed under the Kinship Foster Care scheme, finding new guardians in close family.

The government has constructed rehabilitation townships and provided financial assistance to the affected families. Efforts from various organizations supplement these, ensuring that the children receive necessary emotional and educational support. Although reminders of the tragedy linger, steps towards recovery and hope continue to unfold for the Wayanad community.

(With inputs from agencies.)