Did the Maha govt authorize district funds for flood relief work?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has allocated funds from the District Planning and Development Council for flood relief efforts. This initiative aims to assist the affected population and provide necessary resources during this challenging time. As the state grapples with the aftermath of severe flooding, the government is poised to roll out compensation packages for farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra government allocates funds for flood relief.
- 5% DPDC funds available, increaseable to 10%.
- 28 lakh hectares affected by recent floods.
- Compensation package for farmers expected.
- State officials manage dam discharges actively.
Mumbai, Sep 29 (NationPress) The government of Maharashtra has recently issued a notification permitting the allocation of five percent of the District Planning and Development Council (DPDC) funds for flood relief efforts, as reported by officials.
The expenditure limit during emergencies can be increased to 10 percent with the approval of the district planning committee.
These relief initiatives encompass rescue operations, provision of shelter and food-water, supply of fodder for livestock, cleanup in flood-impacted regions, and temporary repairs.
Each DPDC is allocated a specific sum annually for developmental projects, aiming to decentralize decision-making and prioritize local initiatives.
For the current year, this funding is approximately Rs 20,000 crore.
Now, around 10 percent of this amount is accessible for flood-related relief.
On Tuesday, the Maharashtra Cabinet is expected to unveil a compensation plan for farmers affected by the floods.
Recent heavy rains in Marathwada and other state regions have impacted nearly 28 lakh hectares of various crops.
Between July and August, substantial rainfall damaged crops across about 15.45 lakh hectares.
The cumulative damage to Kharif season land over the last three months amounts to nearly 43 lakh hectares, representing around 30 percent of the total Kharif crop (excluding sugarcane) for 2025-26.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, NCP-SP, and Shiv Sena-UBT, are calling for a special Assembly session to address the floods and subsequent relief measures.
As the heavy rainfall subsided on Monday, state authorities continued to manage water discharges from dams such as Jayakwadi, Sina-Kolegaon, Ujani, Gangapur, Girana, and other rivers.
Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed the flood situation in Marathwada and the discharges from various reservoirs across the state.
On Sunday evening, the Chief Minister engaged with local authorities and the Water Resources Department, instructing district collectors to remain vigilant.
Chief Minister Fadnavis stated, "Discharges of 1,88,000 cusecs are ongoing from the Jayakwadi Dam. Thankfully, with the rain ceasing, there's no need for increased discharge now. This water is expected to reach Nanded by Monday evening. Discharges of 29,400 cusecs are ongoing from the Yeldari Dam and are fully under control. Flooding in the Manjara and Terna rivers has receded. The western Maharashtra situation is stable. Discharges of 75,000 cusecs are happening from Ujjani, and 80,000 cusecs from Sina-Kolegaon."
"Due to the discharge from Jayakwadi, approximately 10,000 people from various villages in Jalna district have been relocated to safety, with 6,870 citizens accommodated in facilities provided at district council schools and community temples. These citizens hail from Partur, Ambad, and Ghanasawangi. Essential food and amenities are being supplied. Residential arrangements have been made at 23 locations. Many farmers' livestock have also been relocated to safety, with fodder provided," he added.
Fadnavis mentioned, "In Nashik, 11,000 cusecs are being discharged from Gangapur Dam, and 10,000 cusecs from Mula Dam. As the rain has subsided, the discharge from Jayakwadi into the dams in Nashik and Ahmednagar areas has been controlled from 87,000 to 68,000 cusecs. In Jalgaon district, 54,500 cusecs are being discharged from Girna Dam, and 65,800 cusecs from Hatnur Dam. All rivers in Konkan are currently below warning levels."
Meanwhile, the All India Kisan Sabha criticized the state government for disregarding the distress of the family of Pandit Sontakke, a farmer from Wahegaon in Nanded district, who tragically took his own life after losing four acres of crops to the floods.
Ajit Nawale, AIKS National Joint-Secretary, stated that no government representative has reached out to Sontakke's family.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach the situation with empathy and an unbiased perspective, focusing on the pressing needs of the affected communities. The Maharashtra government's decision to allocate funds for flood relief is a crucial step, but it must be coupled with swift and effective implementation to ensure that those impacted receive the aid they desperately need.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of DPDC funds can be used for flood relief?
The Maharashtra government has allowed 5% of District Planning and Development Council (DPDC) funds to be utilized for flood relief efforts, which can be increased to 10% with committee approval.
How much area has been affected by the floods?
Approximately 28 lakh hectares of crops have been impacted due to recent heavy rainfall in Maharashtra.
What types of relief work are included?
Relief work includes rescue operations, provision of shelter, food, water, fodder for livestock, cleanup in affected areas, and temporary repairs.
Is there a compensation package for farmers?
Yes, the Maharashtra Cabinet is expected to announce a compensation package for farmers affected by the floods.
What is the current situation regarding river discharges?
Discharges from various dams are ongoing, with the situation being monitored closely by state officials to manage water levels effectively.
