Lok Satta To The Rescue For Cyclone Nilam

The state government's failure in improving the drainage system has compounded the loss inflicted by cyclone Nilam on standing crops like paddy and cotton in several districts, charged the Lok Satta Party on Monday.

In a media statement, Lok Satta Party General Secretary Katari Srinivasa Rao pointed out that drains have not been de-silted in many districts since 1995.

Mr. Srinivsa Rao said that it was unfortunate that the Chief Minister during his latest review of the impact of Nilam confined himself to repairing breaches to the irrigation system and paying compensation to farmers. He declared that the government should focus immediately on the modernization of the drainage system.

The Lok Satta leader appealed that the government provide dryers for drying rain-immersed paddy and ensure its purchase at the minimum support price.

In the absence of elected local governments, there is a lack of coordination among different agencies in extending relief to cyclone victims, Srinivasa Rao said.

The Lok Satta Party has formed two teams to facilitate the extension of relief to victims and to assess cyclone inflicted losses.

The relief team comprises Mr. P. Rambabu of Srikakulam (97108 84656), Mr. Bhisetty Babji of Vizianagaram (98770 17413), Mr. Venugopal of Visakhapatnam (92956 58255) and Mr. Y. D. Rama Rao of East Godavari (98480 80867). Those who would like to provide relief can contact the team members.

The loss assessment team comprises Prof. D. Vishnu Murthy, Poli Naidu, Suresh, Y. D. Rama Rao and Bhsisetty Babji (Convener). The committee will submit its reports to district collectors as also the party headquarters.

Srinivsa Rao conveyed Lok Satta Party's condolences to bereaved families. (INN)