PM announces Rs3b for flood-stricken G-B

PM Shehbaz distributed cheques among flood-affected people of Shishper Glacier of Hunza

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a relief package of Rs3 billion for the restoration and reconstruction of the damages caused by the recent floods in Gilgit-Baltistan and directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) chairman to complete the damage survey immediately.

Shehbaz visited Gilgit-Baltistan to take stock of the devastation caused by the recent floods. Went to the worst-affected areas of Ghazar district and met with the flood victims in Bobar village, where 17 people died in the calamity.

The prime minister was informed that a total of 10,000 kanals of agricultural land, more than 1,000 houses, dozens of bridges, hundreds of water supply lines, water channels and hundreds of kilometres of roads had been partially or completely damaged.

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After the briefing, the prime minister announced Rs3 billion grant to G-B for rehabilitation and reconstruction. He also announced to give Rs1 million compensation for the families of the deceased persons, besides Rs25,000 support for each affected family.

The prime minister also announced the release of Rs100 million for the development of Bobar village. He said that the 5 km long road in the village would be constructed from federal grant. He instructed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to help restore 6 bridges in the district.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz announced Rs5 million for a specially-abled girl, who lost her 6 siblings, her mother and grandmother. He gave special instructions for heath and well-being and the creation of an endowment fund in her name.

Shehbaz ordered the NDMA chairman and the G-B chief secretary to complete the flood damage assessment as soon as possible. Adviser to Prime Minister on Kashmir and G-B Qamar Zaman Kaira and former G-B chief minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rahman were also present.