Mamata Banerjee Urges Immediate Relief for Flood-Affected Residents During Durga Puja Celebrations

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee highlighted the urgent need to assist those affected by floods during the Durga Puja celebrations. Several districts in the state are experiencing severe flooding. Banerjee attributed the current flood situation to human actions, specifically pointing to the rapid release of water from Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) barrages following heavy rainfall in neighbouring regions.

Banerjee emphasised the importance of bringing joy to those impacted by floods in both northern and southern districts. She stressed the necessity of providing relief during Durga Puja celebrations. "We have to be on the side of people in Maldas Ratua, half of which is underwater, and several other areas of north Bengal," she stated. The Chief Minister also urged vigilance in areas like Kandi, Suti, and Farakka until Mahalaya, a period known for high tides.

Flood Impact and Relief Efforts

The Chief Minister described the flood as "man-made" due to DVC's release of large volumes of water in a short span. This action has inundated vast areas of south Bengal, including Khanakul in Hooghly and parts of Howrah. Banerjee noted that these regions are still grappling with floodwaters. She also highlighted the alarming situation in north Bengal, exacerbated by the release of six lakh cusecs of water from barrages due to heavy rains in Nepal.

Banerjee underscored the need to support flood-affected individuals even during festive times. "We have to supply rice, dry fruits and other food items to the distressed people," she mentioned. The Chief Minister's remarks came during a Durga Puja event organised by Sreebhumi Sporting Club in Kolkata's northern part.

Cultural Harmony and Festival Celebrations

Mahalaya, marking the end of Pitri Paksha, is a significant Hindu festival for honouring ancestors. This year it falls on Wednesday. Banerjee referred to Bengal's rich cultural tapestry where diverse communities celebrate festivals harmoniously. "After Durga Puja, we will be celebrating Kali puja, Chhat and Christmas. Previously Eid was celebrated. This is Bengal," she said.

During the event, Banerjee inaugurated three fire stations. Addressing critics who questioned her inaugurating Durga Pujas before Devi Paksha last year, she clarified her stance. "I am not inaugurating the Sree Bhumi Durga puja before the Devi Paksha. The inauguration will take place tomorrow," she asserted.

The Chief Minister emphasised her understanding of auspicious timings for such events due to her Brahmin heritage. "I am the daughter of a Brahmin household. I know the Shlokas as my father had deep knowledge about the scriptures," she added.

Banerjee's comments were made against a backdrop of criticism from opposition parties regarding previous inaugurations before Mahalaya last year. Her focus remains on ensuring relief reaches those affected by floods while maintaining cultural harmony during festival celebrations.