Survey finds gaps in toilet, power access in Kattakada
Thiruvananthapuram: The goal of achieving 100% electricity and toilet coverage in all households remains unmet in the Kattakada assembly constituency. A recent survey conducted by Asha and Anganwadi workers revealed that 69 houses are still without electricity, and 71 households lack access to toilets.
The data was gathered by the district office of the Kerala state economics and statistics department under the 'Samagram Kattakada' project. The initiative aims to assess the living conditions of residents and was launched as a pilot programme in Kattakada, with plans to expand it to other constituencies in the future.
Kattakada MLA IB Satheesh said he was unaware of the findings but assured that he would look into the matter and take appropriate steps to resolve the issues.
The survey found that houses without electricity are spread across Pallichal (20), Vilappil (21), Malayinkeezhu (2), Vilavoorkal (6), Maranalloor (18), and Kattakada (2). Meanwhile, the absence of toilet facilities was reported in 25 houses in Vilappil, 22 in Maranalloor, 18 in Pallichal, and six in Kattakada.
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Several families said they had applied for electricity connections, but their requests remain pending with the Kerala State Electricity Board. Officials have reportedly cited the unavailability of electric poles and technical difficulties as reasons for inaction.
In total, 71 families in the constituency reported practicing open defecation. "It's extremely difficult sometimes. We had approached the panchayat for toilets, but the delay continues. Still, we're hopeful," said Lalitha M, a resident of Vilappil.
The survey also revealed that the state govt's extreme poverty eradication mission has yet to make an impact in the constituency. As many as 554 families were identified as living in extreme poverty, while 225 families were classified under the extreme weaker section.
"I was aware that the survey was underway, but I haven't received the final report. I will check why these households haven't received basic facilities and ensure the necessary actions are taken," said the MLA.
Local panchayat leaders also pledged quick intervention. "We will review the list of affected families and investigate the reasons for rejection.
Appropriate measures will be implemented immediately," said A Suresh Kumar, president of Maranalloor panchayat
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