(MENAFN- KNN India) Kerala, Sep 11 (KNN) Member of Parliament Kodikunnil Suresh has urged the Central Government to approve a special assistance package for Kuttanad - a low-lying region in Kerala - to address its recurring problems of flooding, agricultural loss, and infrastructure decay.

In a letter and during parliamentary discussions, Suresh highlighted the distress faced by paddy farmers, who suffer significant losses when monsoon rains cause inundation of farmlands. He stressed that floodwaters, poor drainage, and weak embankments are undermining agricultural productivity and threatening livelihoods.

The MP proposed the formation of a dedicated“Kuttanad Development Authority” to coordinate relief, flood-control, and infrastructure works more effectively.

Among the specific requests are funds for strengthening embankments, improving drainage systems, reviving water transport channels, and modernising farming support services like access to seeds, equipment, and fair procurement.

Suresh also called for financial assistance under central schemes, pointing out that many floods and related losses in Kuttanad go unremedied due to inadequate support.

He underlined the need for a comprehensive plan that combines short-term relief with long-term structural improvements to reduce vulnerability.

The call comes amid repeated appeals by local leaders and farming groups, who say established policies have failed to deliver durable safeguards. A renewed central package, Suresh argues, could significantly reduce the economic burden on farmers, ensure better preparedness before monsoons, and protect the environment and heritage of Kuttanad.

If approved, such a package could mobilise funds from multiple ministries - Agriculture, Water Resources, Rural Development - and could also link with ongoing central schemes focused on disaster management, irrigation, and livelihood enhancement.

Suresh's demand reflects growing concerns in the region that without sustained intervention, each successive monsoon season will bring worse damage - and fewer chances for recovery for Kuttanad's people and paddy fields.

(KNN Bureau)

MENAFN11092025000155011030ID1110049999