On September 23, 2024, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged the central government to allocate a portion of election campaign funds for flood relief in West Bengal. After assessing the severe flood damage in East Burdwan, she emphasized the need to include destroyed mud houses in the upcoming housing construction plans. Banerjee also called for surveys of agricultural damage and road harm, assuring farmers that crop losses would be compensated. While visiting affected areas, she highlighted the role of the DVC in worsening the floods and committed to providing necessary aid. Her administration is working to support those impacted, including setting up community kitchens and relief camps.
Kolkata: On September 23, 2024, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called on the central government to redirect a portion of election campaign funds to address the ongoing flood crisis in West Bengal. During her visit to the flood-affected areas in East Burdwan, she emphasized that if one-fourth of these funds were allocated to flood management, it would greatly improve the state’s ability to combat the situation.
Banerjee instructed officials to check if the mud houses damaged by the floods are included in the list of 11 lakh houses being built under the Awas Yojana. She noted that the state will start releasing funds for these constructions in December. She also highlighted the need for a thorough survey of the affected kaccha houses.
The flood has severely impacted regions like Jamalpur and Raina II in East Burdwan. Banerjee urged the Agriculture department to assess the damage to crops and assured farmers that they would receive compensation through the Banglar Shasya Bima scheme. Additionally, she called for a survey of damaged roads once the floodwaters recede to initiate repairs.
Addressing the issue of heavy rainfall and its effects, Banerjee lamented that West Bengal often suffers from floods due to upstream water releases in Jharkhand. She visited various relief camps and assured support for those affected, including dry food packet distributions. Furthermore, she raised concerns about the capacity of the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) and alleged plans to privatize its operations.
As the situation unfolds, Banerjee will hold an administrative review meeting in Birbhum to discuss further assistance for flood victims.
Tags: Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal flood relief, Awas Yojana, election funds, DVC, community support, agriculture damage, emergency response
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What is Mamata Banerjee asking the Central Government to do?
Mamata Banerjee is asking the Central Government to divert some election campaign funds to help with flood relief efforts. -
Why is this request being made?
This request is made because many people are suffering from the effects of flooding and need immediate support and assistance. -
How could the diverted funds help those affected by the floods?
The diverted funds could help provide food, shelter, medical care, and other essential services to the people affected by the floods. -
Has the Central Government responded to this request?
As of now, there has been no official response from the Central Government regarding Mamata’s request. - What can people do to help with flood relief?
People can donate to relief funds, volunteer their time, and spread awareness about the needs of those impacted by the floods.
