Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 30 2010:
In all 158 houses along the National highway-53 have been shifted to new locations after mudslides during the course of the ongoing jiri-Tupul rail-line construction works posed threat to the residents, said the Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh quoting report of the Tamenglong district Deputy Commissioner.
Addressing members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly during question hour yesterday, the Chief Minister also informed that the project has effected a total of 116.07 hectares of agricultural land, 23 RCC buildings and 30 Government quarters for which the State Level Calamity Relief Fund Committee has been entrusted to do the needful.
The issue was raised by the MLA K Panmei to the CM, who is also in-charge of the Relief and Disaster Management.
While stating that the Deputy Commissioner concerned had been asked to prepare a detail report on the matter, O Ibobi also expressed confidence of receiving the report within two weeks.
He further maintained that, if necessary, the Railway Board would be intimated to construct retaining walls at specific spots along the Highway where mudslides are likely to occur.
Responding to another query from MLA Dr Ratankumar, the Chief Minister said financial and material assistance have already been handed over to 225 individuals under Wangoi sub-division who were effected due to devastating hailstorms in 2009.The beneficiaries include families of Komlakhong and Phoubakchao, he added.
With regard to delay in the distribution of relief materials, the CM cited controversies when report of effected families was presented to the Government.
Informing that after re-verification process the victims have been provided relevant assistance, he clarified that in case reports of the DC or SDO concerned been flawless the relief distribution would have been prompt and efficient.
Meanwhile, Education Minister L Jayentakumar has stated that there is no specific policy of the State Government to fill vacant post of teachers of Aided Schools even after retirement or expiry of approved teachers.
Entertaining poser from MLA Dr Ng Bijoy, the Minister also conveyed that filling up vacant posts depends on the clearance of the Finance Department.