Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced today that a sum of Rs 1,000 crore will be made available for immediate relief efforts in Gujarat, which has been devastated by Cyclone Tauktae.
The announcement came after the Prime Minister conducted an aerial survey of the affected areas in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath, Amreli, and Bhavnagar districts, as well as Diu.
He also announced that the families of those killed in cyclone-related incidents across several states will receive compensation of Rs. 2 lakh each. Those who are injured in such incidents will be compensated with a sum of $50,000.
“Undertook an aerial survey over parts of Gujarat and Diu to assess the situation in the wake of Cyclone Tauktae. Central Government is working closely with all the states affected by the cyclone,” the Prime Minister said.
“Ex-gratia of ₹ 2 lakh would be given to the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to Cyclone Tauktae in all the affected states. ₹ 50,000 would be given to the injured. GOI is in full solidarity with those affected and will provide them all possible support,” he added.
Following the aerial survey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting in Ahmedabad to assess the relief efforts in Gujarat and Diu.
Gujarat will receive a one-time assistance of Rs 1,000 crore, with additional aid to follow after an inter-ministerial team visits the state to assess the extent of the damage, according to a government statement.
The Prime Minister also assessed the state’s pandemic situation. During his visit, he was accompanied by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and other officials.
According to the government release, the other affected states will receive immediate financial assistance after sharing their assessments with the centre.
Last night, the cyclone made landfall between Diu and Una in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district. In the state, 45 people died as a result of cyclone-related incidents.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the cyclone, which was classified as an extremely severe cyclonic storm on Monday, has weakened into a depression and is now centered over south Rajasthan and the adjoining Gujarat region this morning.
