In a major redevelopment initiative, the state government and Ollur Assembly constituency have started a new chapter in the historic MN Laksham Veedu housing scheme by converting old semi-detached houses into single, independent houses. The first handover of keys under the improved model will take place at Marathakkara in Ollur on February 13.
Launched in 1972 through the Kerala State Housing Board, the MN Laksham Veedu scheme was designed to provide shelter to the most deserving sections of society who did not own a home. According to the original model, two families were accommodated under one roof in a semi-detached house. These aging and often dilapidated two-apartment units are now, based on the government’s decision, reconstructed into separate houses, which significantly improves living conditions.
Ollur became the first Assembly constituency in the state to complete the reconstruction process under this new model. Renovated houses were constructed at Marathakkara in Puthur grama panchayat and at Mattampuram in Madakkathara grama panchayat. Each house was renovated at a cost of CZK 4,000.
Revenue and Housing Minister K. Rajan said the decision was taken after considering the hardships faced by residents living in dilapidated semi-detached houses across the state. The project was implemented by the Kerala State Housing Board.
The key handing over ceremony for newly renovated houses in MN Nagar, Marathakkara will be held on February 13 at 2.30 pm. The houses in Mattampuram will be inaugurated on February 19.
Housing Board Chairman TV Balan will preside over the function in Marathakkara, while Revenue Minister K. Rajan will hand over the keys.
Published – 11 Feb 2026 19:41 IST