Rs 1,951 Crore Released for Flood-Hit Maharashtra, Karnataka as Disaster Relief
The central government has released ₹1,951 crore in disaster relief funds to the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka, which have recently been affected by heavy rainfall and flooding. The funds are intended to aid those who have lost their livelihoods and been displaced due to the natural disasters.
The announcement was made on Sunday, providing immediate financial assistance to the states. The prompt allocation of funds highlights the government's commitment to supporting states affected by natural calamities and ensuring timely relief measures.
In Maharashtra, severe flooding has resulted in significant damage and casualties. Recent reports indicate that eight people have died due to flood-related incidents, with hundreds left stranded as heavy rains impacted several regions, particularly Marathwada. The National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) has been actively involved in rescue operations, saving 320 individuals, including a newborn and its mother, from the affected districts of Dharashiv, Beed, Ahilyanagar, and Solapur. In response to the crisis, the Maharashtra state government had previously approved a ₹2,215 crore relief package aimed at assisting 3,164,000 farmers who have suffered land loss due to the floods. Approximately 555,410 acres of farmland in the Marathwada region were submerged.
Karnataka has also faced its share of challenges due to heavy rainfall, with numerous districts experiencing inundation and displacement. The state government is still assessing the full extent of the damage, but the released central funds will provide crucial support for immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The approved ₹1,951 crore constitutes the second installment of the central share of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) for both Karnataka and Maharashtra for the fiscal year 2025-26.
The release of these funds comes after the Maharashtra government announced a ₹31,628 crore relief package for flood-affected farmers. The package includes compensation for crop loss, livestock casualties, and damage to homes and infrastructure. The state government has also decided to increase compensation for land where soil has been washed away, providing ₹47,000 for soil restoration.
These combined efforts from the central and state governments aim to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the floods and facilitate the rebuilding of communities in the aftermath of these devastating events.
