Flood Relief Measures Announced by Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar
In Bengaluru, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has introduced several measures to address the recent flooding issues. He announced a compensation of Rs five lakh for the families of two children who tragically drowned in Kengeri Lake. Additionally, Rs 10,000 will be provided to homeowners affected by flooding. Temporary housing and food will be arranged for those displaced.
Shivakumar emphasized the need to clear Rajakaluve encroachments across the city and has initiated the desilting of drainages with a Rs 1,000 crore loan from the World Bank. During his visit to Kendriya Vihar apartments in Yelahanka, he discussed the situation with the Apartment Owners’ Association and flood relief personnel.
He mentioned that Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda is working on desilting city drainages and lakes under various schemes. A meeting of the Lake Management Committee will be called soon. Shivakumar also noted that court stays by private individuals are hindering action against encroachments, but he has ordered officials to proceed with clearing them.
The BBMP has taken control of 600 residential units in Kendriya Vihar, with most residents agreeing to temporarily relocate. However, 20 families are resisting, despite the lack of power, water, and food. Temporary accommodation will be arranged for them nearby.
Doubts Revealed
Karnataka Deputy CM -: The Deputy CM, or Deputy Chief Minister, is the second-highest-ranking official in the government of Karnataka, a state in India. DK Shivakumar is the person holding this position.
Flood relief measures -: These are actions taken by the government to help people affected by floods. It includes providing money, temporary housing, and food to those who have lost their homes or belongings.
Compensation -: Compensation is money given to people to help them recover from a loss or damage. In this case, families of children who drowned are given Rs five lakh, and those with flooded homes get Rs 10,000.
Rajakaluve -: Rajakaluve refers to the main stormwater drains in Bengaluru. Clearing encroachments means removing illegal structures built on these drains to prevent flooding.
Desilted -: Desilting is the process of removing silt, which is mud or fine sand, from the bottom of water bodies like drains. This helps in better water flow and reduces flooding.
World Bank loan -: The World Bank is an international organization that provides financial and technical assistance to countries. A loan from them means borrowing money to fund projects like improving drainage systems.
Court stays -: A court stay is a legal order that temporarily stops a particular action. Despite these orders, officials are told to continue with flood relief work.
Kendriya Vihar -: Kendriya Vihar is a residential area in Bengaluru. Residents agreed to move temporarily because they don’t have basic utilities like water and electricity due to flooding.
