Adimaly (Idukki): The 20 families displaced by the October 25 landslip at the Laksham Veedu Colony in Idukki now face another crisis — they have been asked to vacate the temporary relief camp at the Government High School, Adimaly, as classes are set to resume on Monday.

The massive landslip, which happened along an under-construction stretch of the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway (NH-85), destroyed eight houses and rendered several others uninhabitable. A 48-year-old man lost his life after a portion of the unstable hillside collapsed onto his home that night. His wife, Sandhya, sustained serious injuries. The couple had returned home from the camp to collect documents when the tragedy struck.

Authorities had evacuated around 20 families just hours before the landslip, averting further casualties.

However, those now seeking rented accommodation say they are being exploited.
“The highway authorities told us they would pay our rent and help find houses, but landlords are taking advantage of our situation, demanding ₹10,000–₹15,000 per month and even asking for ₹50,000 as a deposit,” Laila said. “How can we afford that when most of us are daily wage workers? I might have to sell even my thali (wedding pendant) just to find a place.”

Though the NHAI authorities have verbally assured rent assistance, no formal agreement has been made, leaving the families anxious. “What if they fail to pay the rent later?” Laila asked.

Onmanorama has reached out to the NHAI Project Director for clarification, but has yet to receive a response.

“As of now, 20 families remain at the school camp, and we are actively looking for alternative accommodation,” said T S Sidhik, a member of the Adimaly panchayat. “Eight families were shifted to the KSEB quarters nearby. It’s not just housing—we also need to arrange food and other essentials for them.”

A total of eight houses were completely destroyed in the landslip, and most affected families depend on daily wages for survival.