Modi flagsoff special relief train to flood affected Bihar

Surat, Sept 17 (UNI) Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi today flaggedoff a special relief train, carrying relief materials including milk powder, clothes and kitchen utensils worth more than Rs 5.5 crore, to Bihar from then Surat railway yard.

Speaking at a function to mark the flag off, Mr Modi said that Gujarat has always shown readiness in helping people who are suffering from natural calamities and it was the first state in the country to give financial help of Rs 5 crore to the flood affected Bihar.

''Whether Union Government gives aid or not, we have to do it as it is our responsibility. The aid is not a favour upon citizens of Bihar or Bihar Government, but is an act of humanity,'' Mr Modi added.

Modi declared that another relief train will be flagged-off from Ahmedabad next week carrying relief materials worth more than Rs 8 crore.

Surat Mayor Ranjit Gilitwala said that Surtis had realized the pain of people of Bihar as the city suffered worst floods two years back. People have helped generously in entire process so that more and more relief material can be sent to Bihar in a limited time, he said.

Mr Modi, who is celebrating his 59th birthday today, came to the yard accompanied by ministers Mangubhai Patel, Anandiben Patel, Narottam Patel and MP Puroshottam Rupala.

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