Tamil Nadu seeks more funds from ADB under TEAP

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu has sought more funds from the Asian Development Bank under the Tsunami Emergency Assistance Programme, discussions for which would be held with the Review Mission visiting the state next month,I Periyasami, Minister for Revenue and Housing said.

Addressing reporters here today after a meeting with ADB President Haruhiko Kuroda, he said that under TEAP, $143.75 million was allotted to the state government for relief and reconstruction activities, of which $83.26 million has been spent.

"Under the livelihood component alone, USD 49.99 million was sanctioned of which $47.78 million has been spent", he said.

"We need more assistance under this component and will be discussing with the Review Mission in November 2007 regarding additional funding requirements and extension of the project period," the Minister said.

Periyasami said that after the tsunami, fishermen were afraid of venturing into the sea and in coastal areas fishing was the only source of livelihood for them. However, after the implementation of TEAP with the ADB assistance, the people, especially women, have started earning money from many other activities, including driving three-wheelers, he said.

Kuroda expressed satisfaction over the progress made under TEAP. "Significant progress has been made. There has been very good co-operation from the state government. I am immensely pleased," he said.