'Expedite construction of calamity victims’ houses'

District in-charge Secretary V Anbu Kumar directed officials to expedite the construction of houses being built for natural calamity victims of Kodagu.

Chairing a progress review meeting at the DC’s office in Madikeri on Thursday, he said that the work pending in Madenadu should be completed before April 30. In other places, the work should be completed before June end, he ordered.

Engineer Shrinivas said that 80 per cent progress was achieved. As many as 25 houses in Karnangeri and 45 houses in Madenadu, 10 in Karnangeri and 43 in Madapura were nearing completion, he added.

Deputy Commissioner Annies Kanmani Joy said that 417 families affected by the natural calamity were selected in the first phase. In the second phase, a list of 411 beneficiaries was drawn and 828 houses are being constructed.

Houses would also be constructed for the remaining beneficiaries after listing them. “As many as 828 houses will be handed over to the beneficiaries soon. The rent for the houses they are currently staying in is being borne by the government till March end,” she informed.

“The drinking water problem in Kushalnagar is solved. The problem persists in tribal hamlets,” the DC said.

Zilla Panchayat CEO K Lakshmipriya was present at the meeting.