Senior Civil Judge and District Legal Services Authority Secretary Shabir Ibrahim M. visited Vettilakkolli tribal hamlet in Nilambur forest on February 6. He inspected the living conditions of about 80 members from 28 tribal families. The visit was ordered by the Kerala State Legal Services Authority after reports of poor living conditions. The hamlet is located three kilometers from the Akampadam forest station and can only be reached by a 4x4 jeep via a tough forest track. The judge found most houses were makeshift shelters made of bamboo and tarpaulin. There were no toilets, electricity, or fencing to protect from wild animals. Villagers mainly depend on irregular work under the MGNREGS scheme. Each family receives roughly 30 kg of rice per month, which they say isn’t enough. "They are largely surviving on rice gruel," said Judge Ibrahim. Supply of pulses and other food through the Integrated Tribal Development Programme has been irregular for months, mostly due to transport problems. "The tribespeople said that they spend around ₹1,500 to transport ration items by jeep," the judge reported. Many residents lack Aadhaar cards, and several children do not have birth certificates. However, school transportation is provided under the Vidyavahini project. Residents do not want to relocate but want better food supply and basic facilities. The judge also reported funds have been allocated to build a road to the settlement. This road is expected to improve access and help with jobs. The DLSA has issued notices to local officials to explore setting up a mobile ration shop and asked the Public Works department for updates on the road construction progress.