PM announces Rs 1,000 cr more for Odisha
| Date :07-May-2019 |
BHUBANESWAR:
Modi conducts aerial survey of cyclone-hit areas in Odisha, praises Naveen Patnaik for handling of the crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-ravaged areas of Odisha and announced an additional central assistance of Rs 1000 crore for relief works in the State. Lauding the Naveen Patnaik Government for its massive evacuation drive ahead of the cyclone, Modi, also promised a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the cyclonic storm.
The Centre had earlier released in advance Rs 381 crore for the state. The cyclone left a trail of destruction in the state and left at least 34 dead. Speaking to reporters after the aerial survey, Modi said, “The Patnaik-led Government has done a commendable job in evacuating coastal areas to avoid loss of lives. A central team will be visiting the state soon to assess the extent of loss and damage”.
The State Government, as part of its preparations to combat the cyclone, had shifted around 12 lakh people from the coastal areas to safer places. Underlining the need for coordination between the Centre and the States during times of crisis, the PM said a “long-term” plan will be prepared to deal with such disasters in future. “The Centre is committed to provide all possible efforts to Odisha for its restoration work,” he added.