How is Rajasthan CM Ensuring Public Safety During Heavy Rains?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Public safety is the foremost priority of the Rajasthan government.
- Immediate aid for farmers facing significant crop losses will be provided.
- Infrastructure repairs are set to begin swiftly post-approval.
- Comprehensive monitoring of low-lying areas and dams is essential.
- The government is committed to equitable water distribution and groundwater recharge.
Jaipur, Sep 8 (NationPress) Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma affirmed that the state government is dedicated to extending all possible assistance to individuals impacted by the recent heavy downpours through comprehensive relief and rescue initiatives.
Public safety and the restoration of critical services are to be prioritized, he emphasized.
During a high-level review meeting with district in-charge ministers and secretaries, Sharma instructed that the proposals for repairing roads, canals, anicuts, and damaged residences in areas affected by rain should be approved within three days, with work commencing by September 23.
He urged officers to swiftly report damaged roads and structures from Gram Panchayats and ensure prompt approvals.
The Chief Minister highlighted that officers must act with compassion and urgency in instances of loss of life and property. Essential services such as healthcare, food supply, and rehabilitation should remain uninterrupted.
Sharma also called for heightened vigilance in low-lying and inundated regions and regular monitoring of dams, ensuring timely water release.
The CM declared that the government fully supports farmers facing crop losses due to excessive rainfall. In cases of over 33 percent crop loss, immediate financial assistance must be provided.
A committee comprising six ministers and secretaries from the Agriculture, Revenue, and Cooperative departments will be established to coordinate with insurance companies and ensure farmers receive prompt aid.
Sharma further emphasized the importance of developing systems for equitable water distribution, enhancing groundwater recharge through tube wells, raising dam heights where necessary, and constructing anicuts. The Additional Chief Secretary Bhaskar Atmaram Sawant reported that during this monsoon, 23 districts experienced abnormal rainfall, while 17 districts recorded above-normal rainfall.
More than Rs 211 crore has been approved for over 10,000 restoration projects, and 1,159 individuals have been safely rescued. Financial aid of Rs 20 lakh has been allocated to divisional headquarters districts and Rs 10 lakh to other districts prior to the monsoon.
The Chief Minister outlined extensive preparations for the Cooperative Membership Campaign scheduled from October 2-15. From September 9-29, the Cooperative Department will facilitate the formation of new PACS, boost membership, link eligible farmers with the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, and manage land allotment for landless PACS.