Karnataka Govt hikes solatium to 1 lakh, toll at 43

Bangalore, June 25 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumarswamy today announced a compensation of Rs one lakh to the families of those who died in the monsoon fury during the last two days, even as the toll went up to 43.

Addressing reporters after a high-level meeting with officials to take stock of the situation arising out of the rain havoc that caused widespread damages to houses, property and livestock, he said the districts of Bagalkot, Bijapur, Gulbarga and Raichur bore the brunt of the rain fury. Besides loss of property, there was disruption of communication and power supply, he said.

Mr Kumaraswamy said the state government had decided to double the solatium to families of the dead. While Rs 50,000 would be paid from Calamity Relief Fund, an additional Rs 50,000 would be paid from Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

Maximum number of incidents of house collapse, both fully and partially, were reported from Bellary with 542 such incidents followed by Gulbarga, he said.

The chief minister said he had spoken to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh about the rain destruction and loss of lives. ''Dr Singh has assured to extend all possible help to the state,'' he said.

According to Weather Department, more heavy rains were expected in the Northern parts of Karnataka next week and district administration had been instructed to take all the necessary measures.

The chief minister ordered the officials concerned to submit detailed reports on rain-related incidents in the next three days.

The state government would send a proposal to the Centre urging immediate release of special assistance. It had released Rs 18 crore to take up works in the rain-hit areas of Bangalore.

UNI