Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) now in session in New Delhi has issued the following statement:
On Floods in Orissa
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expresses its deep concern at the damage caused by floods in Orissa. The entire delta area of the Mahanadi river and its tributaries has been badly affected by flood waters. Around one crore people have been affected. Due to a large number of breaches from embankments, several lakh people are marooned.
Given the enormity of the calamity, the state government has not been able to tackle the situation effectively. Rescue and relief operations are very limited and have had a meagre effect. There is immediate need for sending motorised boats to assist in the rescue operations.
It is essential that the Central Government move immediately to see that relief work is carried out effectively by mobilising all the resources at is command. The Central Government should urgently respond to the requirements of financial and other requirements made by the state government.