CM orders release of Rs 200 cr to 7 rain-hit districts

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Thursday ordered the release of Rs 200 crore for immediate relief and rescue works in seven rain-affected districts.

“It is based on first-hand information that Rs 200 crore will be released,” he told reporters after a high-level meeting with officials here.

Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Hassan, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru and Uttara Kannada districts have been hit due to incessant rains over the past week. “Deputy commissioners already have Rs 237.55 crore in their personal deposit accounts. In addition to this, we are giving Rs 200 crore to restore roads and other infrastructure,” Kumaraswamy said.

The chief minister said: “Two people in Kodagu and one each in Shivamogga and Udupi districts have died in rain-related incidents so far. I have instructed deputy commissioners to give final estimates on the loss of property. Based on that we will request the Centre for aid.”

Asked if he would take up an aerial survey, Kumaraswamy said the situation was not that bad. “District in-charge minsters have camped in their respective districts to monitor the situation. If necessary, I will undertake an aerial survey.”

He added about 300 people who are stranded need to be airlifted.

“We reached out to the Union Home ministry. The helicopters are ready, but they can’t fly due to the bad weather. For now, these people are being provided with food.”