<p>Bengaluru: Leader of the Opposition in Legislative Assembly R Ashoka on Wednesday shot off a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appealing him to immediately release Rs 1,000 crore for relief and rehabilitation in rain- and landslide-affected areas in the state.</p>.<p>In the letter, Ashoka said early monsoon rains had caused widespread damage to public infrastructure and agricultural crops. “Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and landslides have devastated several regions, especially in the Malnad region. Crops like paddy, banana, and vegetables are destroyed,” he stated, citing his visit to Sakleshpur in Hassan district.</p>.<p>Criticising the absence of ministers and senior officials in the affected areas, the opposition leader charged that the state government’s response had been pathetic.</p>.<p>He said urgent measures like immediate rescue and relocation of people from landslide-prone areas using NDRF, SDRF, and local teams; restoration of roads and connectivity to isolated villages, establishment of fully equipped relief camps and adequate compensation for affected families, should be taken up the government. </p><p>That apart, long-term rehabilitation plans like disaster-resilient housing, financial support to farmers, including loan waivers and input supply, should also be taken up by the government.</p>.<p>He also urged the state government to convene a video conference with DCs, SPs, and CEOs to coordinate relief and rescue efforts. "This is not a time for excuses — people need urgent help," he added.</p>
<p>Bengaluru: Leader of the Opposition in Legislative Assembly R Ashoka on Wednesday shot off a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah appealing him to immediately release Rs 1,000 crore for relief and rehabilitation in rain- and landslide-affected areas in the state.</p>.<p>In the letter, Ashoka said early monsoon rains had caused widespread damage to public infrastructure and agricultural crops. “Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and landslides have devastated several regions, especially in the Malnad region. Crops like paddy, banana, and vegetables are destroyed,” he stated, citing his visit to Sakleshpur in Hassan district.</p>.<p>Criticising the absence of ministers and senior officials in the affected areas, the opposition leader charged that the state government’s response had been pathetic.</p>.<p>He said urgent measures like immediate rescue and relocation of people from landslide-prone areas using NDRF, SDRF, and local teams; restoration of roads and connectivity to isolated villages, establishment of fully equipped relief camps and adequate compensation for affected families, should be taken up the government. </p><p>That apart, long-term rehabilitation plans like disaster-resilient housing, financial support to farmers, including loan waivers and input supply, should also be taken up by the government.</p>.<p>He also urged the state government to convene a video conference with DCs, SPs, and CEOs to coordinate relief and rescue efforts. "This is not a time for excuses — people need urgent help," he added.</p>
