Flood toll rises to 35 in Bengal

Kolkata, Jun 25 (UNI) The toll in the devastating flood in two West Bengal districts today shot up to 35 as vast areas still reamined under water even though the overall situation slightly looked up.

'' Though the situation slightly improved, Patashpur and Bhagabanpur in East Midnapore district and Sabang and Pingla in West Midnapore district continued to be inundated, '' Finance Minister Asim Dasgupta said.

Dr Dasgupta said about 3.5 million people had been affected in the flood, caused by surge in the rain-fed rivers, and 3.70 lakh victims were still in 1451 relief camps.

The State Government had so far granted Rs 34.41 crore for relief of the flood-hit people.

UNI KDG SJC DB1903