Darjeeling (West Bengal) [India], October 7 : Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla visited disaster-hit Darjeeling on Tuesday and met with the families affected by the deadly landslides and heavy rains in the region.
Shringla assured the people that all possible help would be provided, mentioning that the Army commander in the area has agreed to build a temporary bridge in Dudhia and is awaiting approval from the Defence Ministry, which will bring some relief to the people.
"Along with the Governor of West Bengal, we visited the relief camp where the affected families are living in the community centre, as they don't have a home yet. We provided them with immediate relief, such as tarpaulins, so they could build shelters. We also provided food and water", Shringla told ANI while on a visit to Mirik area, where atleast 10 people have died due to the disasters.
Talking about the immediate relief of giving cash, the Rajya Sabha MP mentioned the ex-gratia payment announced by the Prime Minister to the families of deceased and the injured, and the immediate cash grant announced by Governor CV Ananda Bose.
"Today, I am in Mirik, where many people have died. 10-11 people have died. There have been numerous landslides here. Homes, entire villages, have been damaged. We will visit their homes to pay our respects to their families and provide relief wherever possible", Shringla said.
"I have personally spoken to the Indian Army commander in this area several times. He's sent engineers to the bridge site in Dudhia at my request and is ready to build the bridge. He's currently awaiting approval from the Defence Ministry. I believe a temporary bridge will be installed as soon as possible, providing relief to people's lives, connectivity, and the transportation of goods across the river," Shringla said.
Earlier, multiple officials and leaders, including Governor CV Ananda Bose, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and a delegation of BJP leaders, visited the flood-affected areas.
During her visit, CM Banerjee appealed to people not to lose courage, maintain restraint and caution.
"My sincere appeal, many people have suffered severely in this disaster. We deeply feel their pain. In this difficult time, we must remember that unity and patience are our greatest strengths. I request everyone not to lose courage, maintain restraint and caution", she said.
Earlier, CM Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia and a Special Homeguard job for a kin of the flood victims.
At least 18 people were reported to be killed in Darjeeling due to incessant rain that wreaked havoc in West Bengal's north on Saturday night, according to the district authorities.
The authorities noted that 11 people were killed in heavy rains in the tourist town of Mirik till October 5. In Jorebunglow, four people were killed, while in Sukhia Pokhari, two people were killed, and in Darjeeling Sadar, one person passed away in the heavy rain that battered the state.