Mukherjee unveils model of cyclone core shelters in Dhaka

Dhaka, Feb.9 (ANI): Visiting Indian External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday unveiled a model of a core shelter that is to be used for survivors in villages in Bangladesh that were struck by 'Cyclone Sidr'.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukherjee recalled visiting some of the cyclone-affected areas in 2007 and the devastating impact it had caused to lives, property and untold sufferings to the people of Bangladesh.

Lauding the courage, endurance and resilience of the people of Bangladesh in reconstructing and rebuilding their lives after the devastating calamity, the Minister said: "As a close and friendly neighbour, India stands committed to assist Bangladesh in its hour of need. After the natural calamities in Bangladesh in recent years, India has readily provided aid and assistance including cash assistance of USD 10 million and food aid consisting of essential items, including rice and milk powder, etc., worth nearly USD 40 million. The 5,00,000 MT of rice for which we had granted a waiver on ban of export has also been supplied to Bangladesh."

"India is committed to rehabilitating 11 cyclone affected villages," he added.

India is to help Bangladesh construct 2800 core shelters in these 11 cyclone 'Sidr' affected villages.

Mukherjee said that The modalities for implementation of the project have been worked out in consultation with the Government of Bangladesh and work would on the project would start soon.

The unit has been designed to utilize locally available material to the maximum extent possible and this project will also contribute to the socio-economic development of the region as we would be engaging the local people for executing the project.

Dr. Abdur Razzak , Bangladesh's Minister of Food and Disaster Management, was also present on the occasion.(ANI)