Madikeri: Even as the State is reeling under a long spell of drought, Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy who is taking rest along with his family at ‘The Ibnii’ resort on the outskirts of Madikeri on Madikeri-Mysuru road chose not to come out of the resort on the second day of his stay on Saturday.
Kumaraswamy visiting the district had brought some hope for flood affected people as they believed that the CM would hear their grievances. But that was not the case, as Kumaraswamy took rest a the resort, without bothering to meet anyone citing that his visit was an entirely a private one.
District Minister holds meeting
On Saturday, Kodagu District Minister S.R. Mahesh who is accompanying the CM held a meeting with officials at the Deputy Commissioner’s office here.
Addressing the meeting, Mahesh said that the construction of houses for flood affected people needs more time and the houses will be allotted to the beneficiaries in stages.
On precautionary measures to be taken during the coming monsoon, he said that Kodagu DC has already taken necessary steps to ensure safety of residents. Pointing out that task force has been formed to tackle monsoon rains, the Minister however said that the Meteorological Department has forecast a harmless monsoon this year.
Regarding the relief for growers and disbursal of rent for the victims who lost their homes in last year’s natural calamity, Mahesh said that proper steps have been taken for distribution of relief funds. Also, the Government will be in constant touch with the district administration regarding the compensation and relief measures taken and also the problems related to drinking water scarcity and drought situation.
Referring to the UGD issue and incomplete construction of retaining walls at landslide spots at Madikeri including the old private bus stand, the Minister assured that he will discuss the issues with Madikeri CMC and directed the officials not to dig roads until the monsoon gets over. Pointing out that the Government has released Rs. 5 crore for construction of retaining walls along Mangaluru road, he said that Rs. 2 crore more will be released soon. He directed the PWD to expedite the works.
On complaints of sub standard works being executed by Nirmiti Kendra, Mahesh asked the officials to ensure that quality be maintained. DC Anees Kanmani Joy gave a brief on the steps taken for handling drought and natural disasters. SP Suman D. Pennekar, ADC P. Shivaraju, AC T. Javaregowda and others attended the meeting.
This post was published on May 12, 2019 7:45 pm