Arunachal Guv, CM announce ex-gratia for landslide victims

Arunachal Pradesh Governor JP Rajkhowa and Chief Minister Kalikho Pul have expressed shock and grief over the loss of 16 lives in a massive landslide triggered by heavy rains at Tawang on Friday.

Praying for the departed souls, the Governor announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 1 lakh for the nearest kin of each of the 16 workers, a release said.

Rajkhowa also mourned the death of the 15-year-old Dipak Deori of Namsai, who lost his life due to drowning in the Namsai floods and announced Rs one lakh as ex-gratia.

The Governor called upon the people to remain alert and take necessary precaution as the state was experiencing heavy rain, the release said.

He also advised the state government and the district administration to warn people living in landslide and flood-prone areas of taking necessary precautions, the release added.

Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families in Tawang, Chief Minister Pul announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 4 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased, Rs 2 lakh to the critically injured, Rs 50,000 and Rs 4,000 to the injured persons.

Pul termed the incident as unfortunate, an official release said. Keeping constant touch with district administration, Pul asked DC Tawang to provide all care and help to the victims’ families and those who were injured in the incident.

He called up Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and apprised him of the situation due to flash floods, landslides and road blocks in the state, the release said. Pul also discussed the matter with Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, who assured all help and support to the state government. 

Pul has been told that there were landslides and flood-like situation in almost all districts during interactions with 18 DCs on the prevailing flood situation.