Madikeri: While Kodagu district is limping back to normalcy, the state government seems to have learnt a lesson from the catastrophe that struck the district.

Kodagu floods have devastated the serene district and it was evident that excessive exploitation of nature was one of the biggest factors.

Tourism boom had driven individuals to mercilessly scar the hillocks and build houses, resorts and homestays.

Minister for Urban Development UT Khader told reporters that taking cognizance of the same, the state government is now thinking over regulating the construction of houses on hillocks and laws will be brought in place soon.

Land identified for displaced families

He said that the state government has identified 42 acres of land to rehabilitate the displaced families of the district as of now.

“The land for the said purpose have been identified in K Nidugane, Monnangeri, Karnangeri in Madikeri and at Thakeri in Somwarpete. The houses will be built by the government using new technology. We are also procuring details about availability of land from all Gram Panchayats in the district. We will then collate the details and distribute land to the displaced families accordingly, ” the minister said adding that Additional DC M K Jagadeeesh has been appointed on specific purpose of identifying land for the displaced families.

“Nothing can be created overnight. Even the process of rebuilding Kodagu will take some time. However, the state government has handled the situation efficiently and is determined to do its best in rehabilitating the people,” he said adding that 1120 houses have been damaged in the flood and 186 houses have been completely destroyed.

DC Srividya and others were present.