The City Corporation's Thanal Housing project is set to provide secure housing for 136 disabled families from Vikalanga Colony in Muttathara, marking a milestone in improving living conditions for the community. Revised as a two-storey design after addressing objections and obtaining Airport Authority clearance, the INR 20 crore project will begin construction in January, led by Uralungal Labour Construction Co-operative Society (ULCCS). Additionally, 102 displaced fishermen families from Valiyathura will be housed in a new 400-flat complex under the 'Punargeham' project. These initiatives aim to uplift vulnerable communities by offering dignified housing and improved living standards, showcasing the state's commitment to social welfare.
The City Corporation is preparing to begin the construction of a residential complex at Priyadarshini Nagar, designed to accommodate the families from Vikalanga Colony at Muttathara, as part of the Thanal Housing project. This marks a significant milestone in improving housing for members of the disabled community who have lived in Vikalanga Colony for nearly five decades.
The original proposal was for a three-storey building; however, following objections from residents of the nearby Bangladesh Colony and the need for clearance from the Airport Authority of India (AAI), the design was revised to a two-storey structure. This change helped speed up the approval process, and with the AAI's no-objection certificate now in hand, construction is expected to start in January.
The Uralungal Labour Construction Co-operative Society (ULCCS) has been awarded the INR 20 crore contract for this housing project, and initial ground-clearing work has already begun. Shajida Nassar, the development standing committee chairperson and councillor for Vallakadavu ward, mentioned that the project will provide housing for 136 families, each with 550 sq ft of living space. She further explained that all the obstacles had been cleared, and they were moving forward with the two-storey design. She confirmed that soil tests were completed, and construction is ready to commence.
The Thanal project will be built on two acres of land that were originally designated for the rehabilitation of fishermen affected by sea erosion. These families will now receive housing under the 'Punargeham' project, which will be developed on newly allocated land in Muttathara.
Additionally, a separate apartment complex will be constructed in Muttathara to house 102 fishermen families currently living in temporary shelters in a Valiyathura godown. This new complex will consist of 400 flats, each with two bedrooms, a hall, and a kitchen, and aims to provide these families with a stable and dignified living environment.
The goal of the apartment complex is not only to provide housing but also to enhance the overall quality of life for its residents. The Thanal project, with an estimated completion timeline of 18 months, reflects the state government's commitment to addressing the housing needs of vulnerable communities. By offering secure housing and improved living conditions, the initiative seeks to uplift the disabled residents of Vikalanga Colony and provide a fresh start for the fishermen families who face displacement.
The Thanal housing project represents a significant step toward providing secure, dignified housing for disabled residents of Vikalanga Colony and displaced fishermen families. By addressing long-standing housing challenges and improving living standards, the project underscores the state's dedication to the welfare of vulnerable communities. With construction scheduled to begin shortly and a focus on both immediate and long-term impacts, this initiative holds promise for transforming lives and fostering stability for those in need.