Madikeri, Aug. 18 -- Unprecedented rains, landslips and floods devastated lives and properties in Kodagu last Aug. 17 and 18. Many villages were wiped out as mud came crashing down carrying everything in its path - trees, mud, electric poles and houses.

It has been a tough one-year journey for those who lost their homes, hard-earned money and properties and they have been scarred for life. Though the natural disaster has wreaked havoc in the lives of people, there is a silver lining in those dark clouds. After initial hiccups and road blocks, brand-new, modern and secure houses are being built for the homeless to stay.

Finishing touches: Over 85 percent of the 423 houses that were promised in the first phase of rehabilitation project ha...