PM speaks to Modi, assures central assistance for relief

New Delhi, July 3 (UNI) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi tonight and assured him central assistance for relief and rehabilitation of the people affected by the devastating floods in the state.

The Prime Minister also enquired about the flood situation in the State, an official spokesman said here.

Mr Modi, who is currently on a visit to Geneva and Switzerland, has cut-short his visit and is returning to Gujarat, an official statement issued in Ahmedabad said.

In the telephonic conversation, the Chief Minister apprised the Prime Minister of the flood-situation in the state and requested for immediate central assistance.

Mr Modi told Dr Singh that Gujarat had suffered huge agricultural losses, besides death of 84 people.

He also asked for more assistance of Indian Air Force for effective and faster rescue operations for people trapped in flood-affected areas.

Meanwhile, rains continued to wreak havoc in the state, claiming 84 lives in the past three days, besides damaging crops, properties and disrupting road and rail traffic.

Thousands of people residing in low-lying ares, were evacuated following the monsoon fury.

As many as 13 people have gone missing in the State.

UNI