The Government of India is at present not contemplating to build a wall along the coastline in the country as a measure to control the effect of Tsunami and other waves. The State Governments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala have however sought financial assistance for construction of walls in the coastal areas in their respective States. Release of funds for such long term measures has so far not been considered. The Government have constituted a Core Group under the Planning Commission to plan and make provision for long term rehabilitation and reconstruction in the Tsunami affected areas.
Giving this information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today, the Minister of State for Home, Shri S. Regupathy said Government of India has approved a special package of Rs,.3644.05 crore named as “Rajiv Gandhi Rehabilitation Package for Tsunami affected areas” to provide assistance for immediate relief and response, revival of fishery and agriculture sectors, immediate construction of temporary (intermediate) shelters and repair/restoration of infrastructure. The package for Tamil Nadu is Rs.2347.19 crore, Andhra Pradesh –Rs.70 crore, Kerala-Rs.249.36 crore, Pondicherry-Rs.155.62 crore, Andaman & Nicobar Islands-Rs.821.88 crore.
Distribution of relief on ground is the responsibility of the State/UT Governments which are required to keep proper account. The States are also required to submit a monthly statement of expenditure details to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
He said for the Tsunami disaster no external assistance for immediate relief and response has been accepted by the Government because of the availability of resources within the country.
OK/RCP/MM
(Release ID :7820)