KOZHIKODE: The district collector has been entrusted with chalking out of a comprehensive plan for the development of Sambava colony in Perambra after the visit of excise and labour minister T.P. Ramakrishnan on Tuesday. The settlement has 30 Sambava Dalit families who lack basic amenities including drinking water, electricity and proper housing.
Sambava colony hogged limelight last year after it was found that no students from other communities enrolled in the nearby Perambra Welfare L.P School as they were reluctant to mix with Sambava children. The ‘untouchability’ for the last five years was due to their alleged non-hygienic conditions. The minister said all efforts would be made to uplift the living standards of the people in the colony.
“Half of the existing houses are in dilapidated condition. Directions had been given to SC/ST department to prevent the roof leakage and to lay tiles on floors. The government will increase the allotted sum of Rs 3 lakh for the construction of a house for Sambava colony,” minister said after the visit.
Perambara panchayat authorities have been asked to solve drinking water issues temporarily. District panchayat has earmarked a fund of Rs 1 crore to set up a drinking water project exclusively for the colony dwellers. Similarly, KSEB has been asked to bring electricity within two weeks.
A committee has been formed to look into the feasibility of starting a pre-primary school on the colony premises with an aim to bring all students to the Welfare L.P School. A draft of the development plan prepared by former chief engineer P.C. Balan was ready, and the district collector will incorporate the necessary suggestions to evolve a comprehensive package, the minister said after a meeting with the officials at Perambra Panchayat hall. District panchayat president Babu Parassery, district collector N. Prasanth and others were present.
