Over 2000 from Rajasthan feared trapped in Uttarakhand

JAIPUR: Rajasthan government has set up four relief camps in rain-ravaged Uttarakhand and is coordinating with the local administration for the rescue of over 2,000 people from the state who are still trapped.

"We have set up four camps in Rishikesh, Haridwar and at Jolly Grant airport in Dehradun, and coordinating with local authorities for evacuation of those who are trapped," Principal Secretary (Medical and Health) Deepak Upreti told PTI over phone.

Around 250 people have been evacuated and are being brought back, but the number of missing people may go up as the control room set up by the state government is frequently receiving missing reports, its in-charge Mahesh Sharma said.

"Close to 100 people have arrived here by special buses and arrangements for remaining people are also made in Dehradun by the Rajasthan government," Sharma said.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who arrived in Dehradun today, said authorities have been able to establish contact with close to 1,000 people.

Gehlot is there to supervise relief works and discuss the situation with his Uttarakhand counterpart Vijay Bahuguna.

Upreti said the state government has initially offered a financial help of Rs 2 crore to the flood-hit state, besides providing food, medical aid and other assistance.

While 20 state officers are working in these camps, two IAS officers including Upreti himself along with 9 state service officers, 12 doctors and 6 paramedical staff are coordinating and executing the relief works.

A number of relatives of those reported missing from the state are in Dehradun, trying to establish a contact with their dear ones, besides being in touch with the state control room.

Omprakasah Sharma from Jaipur, whose parents and relatives are stranded somewhere near Phata, said he is unable to contact them since last morning, and there is no information about them.

Meanwhile, a number of local organisations and individuals have extended helping hand for the victims of the disaster. IAS officers of the state will also donate their one-day salary to the Chief Minister's relief fund.