Gujarat floods: India announces Rs 500 crore interim relief

NEW DELHI (INDIA): Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has announced an interim assistance of Rs 500 crore for Gujarat where two districts continued to reel under floods.nnModi made an aerial survey of flood affected areas of Gujarat.nnThe Prime Minister also reviewed the flood relief operations at a high level meeting at Ahmedabad Airport. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, other senior ministers and top officials of the State Government, disaster response agencies and PMO.nnThe Prime Minister was given an overview of the extent of damage caused by floods, and the relief operations being undertaken.nnThe Prime Minister instructed all agencies involved in relief operations, including the Indian Air Force, to put in their best possible effort for immediate rescue and relief. He emphasized the importance of cleanliness, hygiene and health, and said these aspects should also be accorded the highest priority.nnThe Prime Minister said insurance companies including those dealing with crop insurance may be advised to organise assessment of damage to assets, crops etc quickly, and take steps for early settlement of claims, so as to provide immediate relief to affected people.nnThe Prime Minister also called for immediate restoration of water supply, electricity and communication links.nnThe Prime Minister suggested that special teams be set up for repair of damaged roads, restoration of power infrastructure, and for health related assistance.nnAddressing the media at Ahmedabad Airport, the Prime Minister said Gujarat had faced heavy rains for the past week. He said ten more helicopters would be pressed into action for rescue from tomorrow, and asserted that the pace of relief work will be increased further. He said extent of damage would be assessed in both rural and urban areas, and both short and long term measures would be put in place.nnThe Prime Minister appreciated the State Government, and all other agencies for the response to the flood situation so far.nnThe Prime Minister announced ex-gratia of two lakh rupees to the next of kin of the deceased, and fifty thousand rupees to those seriously injured in the floods.nnHe announced an immediate additional assistance of 500 crore rupees under the SDRF.nnHe expressed confidence that the people and the State of Gujarat would emerge even stronger and successfully tackle the challenge posed by the floods.nnHe assured the people of the State that the Union Government stands shoulder to shoulder with them at this difficult time.nn.