Shekhawat seeks comprehensive relief for flood victims in Rajathan

New Delhi, Sep 25 (UNI) Home Minister Shivraj Patil today assured Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat that the Centre would be sending adequate relief and assistance for the flood victims of Rajasthan.

Mr Patil who was called by the Vice President to discuss the flood situation in the state and the Centre's relief and rehabilitation plan, said that given the importance of the area, there would be no scarcity in providing relief and assistance to the state.

He said that, if needed, a team of expert would be sent to the state to visit the flood affected areas and suggest reconstruction plan.

The Home Minister also apprised the Vice President about the efforts already made and actions being taken by the Central Government to provide relief and assistance to the flood victims in the state.

Earlier, Mr Shekhawat called for early relief and rehabilitation to flood victims in Rajasthan.

Mr Shekhawat stressed that the Centre send early and comprehensive relief to Rajasthan because of the state's strategic position. He said adding that keeping in view of the long international border the state had, repair of border roads and reconstruction work should be taken up on priority basis.

He pointed out that thousands of people had been rendered homeless due to recent floods and the centre must provide adequate assitance for the reconstruction of the damaged houses. As construction was comparatively a costly affair in desert areas, there should be relaxation of rules to provide assitance to the state.

Besides, alternative sources of livelihood should also be made available to the people affected by the floods, he said.

UNI KAS SK RAI2003