Orissa govt to bring out a detail flood damage report

Bhubaneswar, Sept 8 (UNI) The Orissa government will come up with a detailed flood damage report within two weeks.

" We are taking more time to compile the report because water is yet to recede in most of the severely affected parts of Kendrapara and Puri districts, " Special Relief Commissioner Jagadananda Panda told UNI.

He said pending detailed estimate, the state had sought flood damage assistance to the tune of Rs 2029 crore from the Centre.

Flood, triggered by heavy monsoon rains since early July, caused extensive damage in 27 of the state's 30 districts.

Meanwhile, the seven-member federal team, led by Joint Secretary, Home Affairs, S K Chattopadhyay left for Delhi today after another round of discussion with senior state officials.

The team, divided in three groups, visited 20 districts.

" Definitely the flood is ferocious and has caused extensive damage. We are going to make appropriate appraisal so that Orissa is benefited from National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF) and Calamity Relief Fund, " Mr Chattopadhyay told newsmen here before leaving for Delhi along with his team.

Stating that the Centre will bring out a detail assistance package once its received final estimate, he said the state government did well on the relief front.

" It could have done better, " the central team leader said.

" We don't say we did well. The emphasis was on minimizing suffering. " He said the state government was still awaiting Rs 200 crore interim relief announced by the Prime Minister.

UNI XC SJC KLC1808