Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda announced Rs. 20 lakh for rehabilitation of fire victims of Kotla village of Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh from the MP Local Area Development (MPLAD) funds, where more than 70 houses were gutted in a fire that broke out on Sunday night.
Nadda said, “The funds are being provided to Deputy Commissioner, Kullu for utilizing it in rehabilitation work in the fire ravaged village. The local administration has been asked to send estimates of the loss of property and rehabilitation requirements”.
“Once we receive the rehabilitation plan and loss assessment, the Centre would provide required support from various ministries and institutions including public sector undertakings, the Minister said.
The Minister expressed deep concern that because of lack of availability of road to the affected village the fire tenders couldn’t reach there in time. “Had there been the road, the tragedy’s impact could have been minimized.” he added.
Nadda further said that it is ironical that a road was constructed overnight for Himachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister’s visit to this village after the tragedy.
“I would like the state government to ensure that the rehabilitation work is completed at war footing and not delayed due to any red tape as winter season has already set in “, he added.
The Health Minister further said, “The first and the foremost requirement is immediate rehabilitation of the affected families who have lost their houses and belongings. I am releasing Rs 20 lakh for the same from my Local Area Development Fund. I want to assure that whatever more assistance is required will be provided.”
