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Telangana Floods Funds after Central Visit
Telangana Flood Relief: Central Support Pending Damage Assessment
Hyderabad: Amid severe flooding in Telangana, Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy clarified on Tuesday that while the state would receive central assistance, the floods would not be declared a “national calamity” as requested by the state government. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to support the flood-hit population and assured that the Union government would allocate additional funds after central teams assess the damages on the ground.
Central Assistance and National Calamity Status
Union Minister Kishan Reddy outlined the Centre’s position, stating that the declaration of a “national calamity” is not typically applied, and instead, the focus remains on providing necessary relief irrespective of the classification. “It’s (national calamity) not there anywhere… We are helping. Whatever is the name (of calamity). We have to provide relief to people and help them,” he stated, emphasizing that the priority is on effective and timely assistance rather than the designation of the disaster.
He reiterated that the State Disaster Response Fund is at the state government’s disposal, and urged Telangana authorities to deploy these resources promptly to alleviate the plight of affected citizens. “The SDRF is with the state government. They should spend that fund and help people. The Central government’s teams will come to Telangana and undertake spot visits. We will give additional amounts on the basis of their report,” Reddy said.
Central Teams and Future Support
The Union Minister confirmed that central teams would soon visit Telangana to conduct on-site inspections and evaluate the extent of the damages caused by the floods. Based on their findings, the Centre will determine the quantum of additional funds to be released to support recovery and relief efforts.
Reddy also mentioned that the Centre provides provisions for compensation to flood victims for loss of life and other damages, ensuring that support extends beyond infrastructure repair to directly assist those most affected by the disaster.
PM Modi’s Potential Visit to Telangana
In response to calls from the Telangana state government for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the flood-affected areas, Reddy noted that while such visits are possible, they are generally scheduled only after the immediate relief operations stabilize. He highlighted that the primary focus should remain on relief efforts rather than the logistical demands of high-profile visits, as these can sometimes divert resources away from on-ground aid.
Reddy drew a parallel to PM Modi’s visit to Kerala after recent landslides, which occurred once the situation had settled and initial relief measures were already in place. This approach aligns with the Centre’s guidelines to prioritize relief efforts and ensure that visits by Union ministers or the Prime Minister do not disrupt ongoing assistance to the victims.
Challenges and Concerns Raised by Flood Victims
Despite ongoing relief measures, flood victims in Telangana have voiced concerns about delays in receiving adequate support. Union Minister Kishan Reddy acknowledged these grievances and urged the state government to expedite the disbursement of relief materials and funds from the SDRF.
Reddy further criticized the Telangana government, both under the previous BRS regime and the current Congress administration, for failing to submit utilization certificates for funds released in the past by the Centre for the SDRF. This lack of accountability has raised concerns about the effective use of allocated resources and the need for better management of disaster response funds.
Celebration of Hyderabad Liberation Day and Ganesh Immersion
In addition to addressing flood-related issues, Kishan Reddy announced that the Centre would once again celebrate Hyderabad Liberation Day on September 17. This day marks the merger of the erstwhile princely state of Hyderabad with the Indian Union in 1948, following the defeat of the Nizam’s rule. The event has been celebrated in Hyderabad for the past two years, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected to be the chief guest at this year’s celebrations at Parade Ground.
Interestingly, the date also coincides with the immersion of Ganesh idols after Ganesh Chaturthi festivities, a practice that has historical significance dating back to September 17, 1948, when the Nizam’s regime ended, and the Indian tricolour was hoisted in Hyderabad. The day also marks Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and Vishwa Karma Puja, adding multiple layers of cultural and historical relevance to the celebrations.
Conclusion
Union Minister Kishan Reddy’s statements underscore the Centre’s commitment to supporting Telangana during the flood crisis while emphasizing the importance of proper utilization of the State Disaster Response Fund by the state government. As central teams prepare to assess the flood damage, further financial assistance from the Union government is anticipated, ensuring that relief efforts can be scaled up as needed. Meanwhile, the state and its citizens continue to navigate the challenges posed by the floods, with hopes for swift and effective recovery measures.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on official statements from Union Minister Kishan Reddy as of September 2024. The situation regarding flood relief and central assistance in Telangana is subject to change based on ongoing assessments and government actions. Readers are advised to stay informed through official government updates and announcements.
