Slow rehabilitation work irks victims in Kodagu

Though the district administration has levelled 100 acres of land for rehabilitation of landslides and flood victims in Kodagu, there are allegations that rehabilitation works are failing to gain momentum.

Only temporary works on the roads connecting villages have been taken up. A delay in the announcement of special package from the Centre has further delayed the work on houses, permanent work on roads and bridges that have been damaged in the rain.

The decision on compensation for farmers who have lost their coffee estates has not been finalised. As a result, the victims are worried about their future.

According to an estimate, around 4,000 acres of coffee estates have been damaged in landslides. In fact, the crops cannot be grown on these affected estates for several years.

There are several growers in Makkandooru, Mukkodlu, Tantipala, Kandanakolli, Emmetala, Hattihole, who have lost their source of livelihood. The victims have expressed displeasure over the minimum compensation. As per the present policy, compensation of Rs 18,000 per hectare can be given. Further, compensation would be given up to a maximum of two hectare.

The victims have also expressed displeasure over bracketing a fully collapsed house as partially collapsed.

Villager Narayana said, “There is no road to Hebbttageri. The hilly ranges on all the sides have collapsed. There is a possibility of danger if the region gets rain again. In spite of it, the officials have submitted a report that the houses are conducive for living.”

Further, the state government has not taken a decision on compensation.

The inter-ministerial central team that visited the district will submit a report to the Centre.

According to sources in the district administration, the decision on compensation will be taken after the Centre announces the grant.