Mah cabinet approves Rs 350 cr under EGS

Pune, Jul 28 (UNI) Maharashtra cabinet has approved Rs 350 crore for immediate disbursement for developmental works under the Employment Guarantee Scheme (EGS) and empowered Divisional Commissioners to sanction works upto Rs 50 lakh, as part of relief measures in the wake of drought like situation in the state.

The works will begin in the ''chronic villages'' from August 1.

Talking to reporters after a review meeting with district officials from various departments, State EGS Minister Harshavardhan Patil said the State Assembly session had ended a week earlier for the state government to take timely relief measures as per the directions of the Chief Minister.

''Over five lakh families from five districts will be brought under the EGS. Many of the incomplete works will now be transferred to the MREGS,'' Mr Patil said.

''Work has already begun in Sangli district. The works cover horticulture, social forestry, tree plantation, and minor irrigation projects,'' the Chief Minister said.

The EGS Minister said all Commissioners and district officials have been asked to submit their reports and estimates within three to four days. ''The technical estimates are difficult to tabulate as the gram panchayats are not competent enough. However, we have Rs 2,000 crore to meet any emergency and the state finance department has been asked to ensure work for labour within 2-3 kms. We have earmarked Rs 465 crore for the EGS works and will ask for additional Rs 600 crore,'' Mr Patil said.

He said the disbursements for six talukas in Vidarbha, announced by the Prime Minister have begun, under which 64 talukas will be covered.

Around 64, 000 wells will be dug in the area, now it is mandatory to have the muster on the internet,'' he informed.

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