Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) has expressed strong appreciation for the significant strides made in the Wayanad-Vilangad Natural Disaster Rehabilitation Project, a massive Church-driven initiative aimed at rebuilding the lives of those affected by last year’s devastating floods.
The project, which was rolled out under the supervision of the KCBC in the aftermath of the torrential rains and landslides that battered the hilly terrains of Wayanad and Vilangad, has been instrumental in providing long-term housing and rehabilitation for displaced families. At the recently concluded KCBC Monsoon Conference held at the Palarivattom Pastoral Orientation Centre, bishops representing 32 dioceses reviewed the project’s progress and commended its effectiveness.
According to the latest updates, the construction of 100 permanent houses is currently underway across multiple sites in the affected regions. The homes are being built using disaster-resilient designs, incorporating eco-friendly materials and sustainable infrastructure. Each house is being constructed with provisions for sanitation, electricity, and potable water to ensure dignified living conditions for the beneficiaries.
The council confirmed that the construction is progressing steadily in multiple phases and is expected to be completed by December 2025, allowing families to settle before the next monsoon season. The selection of beneficiaries was conducted through a transparent verification process in collaboration with local parishes and panchayats, ensuring that only the most vulnerable and displaced families are prioritized.
KCBC President Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, speaking on behalf of the bishops, stated that the rehabilitation effort reflects the Church’s enduring commitment to social justice and compassionate service. “The Church stands with the poor and displaced not only in prayer but in tangible action. Through this initiative, we are not merely rebuilding houses, but restoring hope and dignity,” he said.
The council also emphasized that the rehabilitation work is part of a broader vision of sustainable community development. Plans are in place to extend the support through vocational training, education aid for children, and health check-up camps, thereby fostering holistic recovery in the region.
Volunteers, religious congregations, social service organizations, and lay leaders have all been actively involved in the implementation of the project. The KCBC credited their dedication for the smooth execution of the initiative and called upon the faithful to continue supporting these missions through prayer and contributions.
As Kerala continues to face unpredictable climatic events and frequent natural calamities, the Wayanad-Vilangad rehabilitation model is being seen as a replicable framework for faith-based disaster response. The KCBC concluded that the project not only aligns with the Church’s humanitarian mission but also strengthens the Church’s role as a pillar of community resilience.