The North News
Chandigarh, September 15
The Punjab government has released Rs 2 crore in compensation to 50 families who lost members in the recent floods, disclosed Revenue Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian here today. Mundian confirmed that 56 people had died in the floods. Compensation has already been provided to 50 families, while payments to the remaining six will be finalised soon. He added that girdawari (damage assessment) work has begun and assured that full compensation will be given to those who suffered losses. While, Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond said a state-wide relief and rehabilitation programme was underway in rural Punjab. He added that debris clearance and carcass disposal would be completed by 24 September. A cleanliness drive covering 2,300 villages is also in progress to prevent waterborne diseases, with doctors leading medical teams to examine people and livestock. Vaccinations for animals are being carried out.
Local Government Minister Dr Ravjot Singh said nodal officers have been assigned to help municipal officers expedite sanitation efforts. Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh noted that teams had been deployed to monitor affected areas and prevent disease outbreaks.
Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian announced a five-day cleanliness drive in grain markets to ensure smooth procurement of paddy.
