| Kummali Hyder Ali and Babu, Maniani, Koorad, Vandoor, Malappuram |
When his neighbours ran helter-skelter in search of water in the blazing summer, Kummali Hyder Ali and his son Babu of Maniani, Koorad, Vandoor had no hesitation to spend their own money and dig a public well in his own land to quench their thirst.
For many years, the neighbourhood had depended on Hyder Ali’s well in the paddy field. However, in the intense summer of the past year, the well got depleted. Deepening the well only produced turbid water, which was the only solace of the colony.
It was then that the family decided to dig another well at a cost of about Rs. 50000. This well has water to a depth of five rings. In addition to the well, they have provided an enclosure with taps and other facilities for women to take bath. The pond in the upper reach has been deepened as an additional source of water.
Not to be left to the mercy of the heat are the birds and other inheritors of the earth. Hyder Ali and Babu have kept numerous small vessels in the neighbouring paddy field to quench the thirst of these denizens. What the Eternal Provider has gifted, let others too benefit, the father and son reveal their philosophy.
Courtesy: Mathrubhumi, March 7, 2017
