Gujarat government may announce flood relief package tomorrow for flood-affected Amreli district

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat health minister Nitin Patel today said that the government may announce the relief package for flood-affected Amreli district and surrounding areas tomorrow.

According to Patel, the survey of affected region has been completed and various office-bearers of the ruling BJP have submitted their views to a government committee.

"To assess the loss, our party leaders went to the affected region and talked with people and farmers. They have now submitted their suggestions," said Patel, the government spokesperson.

"These opinions and suggestions have been forwarded to the Chief Minister Anandiben Patel. Based on the report, the state government may announce the relief package tomorrow."

Former agriculture minister and senior BJP leader from Amreli, Dilip Sanghani said, "Through our representation, we put the real picture of damage before the committee of ministers today. I am sure that state government will announce a fair package."

Heavy rains caused floods in Amreli district and Gondal tehsil of Rajkot district on June 24, claiming 70 lives. Livestock and several wild animals, including the lions of Gir sanctuary, also perished.

Meanwhile, Congress MLA from Amreli Paresh Dhanani's hunger strike continued for the sixth day today. He demanding a special relief package for Amreli.

Amreli BJP MP Naran Kachhadia downplayed the Congress's protest.

"The relief package will be announced keeping in mind the losses, not because Congress leaders are protesting. I am sure the government will announce a comprehensive package beyond the imagination of affected people as well as the Congress leaders," Kachhadia said.

The Congress has demanded a relief package of Rs 2,000 crore.