Pune: As July 30 approaches, marking ten years since the devastating landslide in Malin village, Ambegaon taluka, the struggles of the residents persist.
The disaster on July 30, 2014, claimed 151 lives and buried the entire village under debris. Despite the passage of a decade, the rehabilitation efforts are still deemed unsatisfactory, with many issues unresolved.
The catastrophe led to the establishment of a new Malin village with 68 houses, inaugurated on April 1, 2017, by then-Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. However, fundamental issues like the availability of drinking water and adequate housing remain unaddressed, causing continued hardship for the villagers.
During summer and early monsoon, residents still have to fetch water from Asane with pots on their heads. There are demands for a tin shed over the memorial for shade, a community hall in front of the Hanuman temple, and repair of leaking roofs. The villagers, Amol Ankush and Dilip Lembhe, reported that despite frequent power cuts, they receive exorbitant bills.
"Our emotions are buried here...," expressed the locals about the memorial for the 151 deceased at the old Malin village site. Memories and feelings are tied to this place.
The new Malin village has a district council school with 53 students from grades 1 to 7 and 19 children in the Anganwadi. Ravindra Zanjare, a boy who was in grade 3 during the Malin incident, is now in grade 13. He recalls, "Our house was near the old Malin school. Remembering it still scares me."
Despite ten years passing, Malin residents have not escaped the trauma. Heavy rains still awaken memories of that dreadful day. On July 30, 2014, in a flash, the prosperous village turned to rubble, and 151 lives were lost. Even today, remembering that day brings chills.
During the disaster, 40 families lost 151 members, and nine were injured. Thirty-eight people survived as they were out of the village. The government, through the National Disaster Response Force, excavated the debris for eight days and retrieved 151 bodies.
Various leaders visited the site over those eight days. Many charitable organizations, individuals, and companies came forward to assist Malin. Thirst and hunger forgotten, they worked tirelessly.
The government provided ₹8.5 lakh to the heirs of each deceased and aid through various schemes. Additionally, 68 houses were built in the new village, providing all basic civic amenities. However, the 16 partially affected families who survived faced immense hardship and were eventually allotted houses in the new village.
Even after a decade, Malin residents face numerous challenges. Houses still leak, the memorial is in disrepair, water sources are inadequate, and the shed is not constructed.
The water supply scheme is ineffective, and the old and new Malin road is full of potholes, making travel difficult. Residents like Govind Zanjare and Amol Ankush still recall the horror of July 30, 2014, every time it rains heavily.