Darjeeling Lok Sabha MP Raju Bista on Tuesday informed that the NHPC is committed to constructing a protection wall in Kalijhora and undertaking other protective measures as rising water levels of Teesta River threaten villages falling on its bank. The statement of Bista comes after he visited the flood-affected areas today along the River Teesta namely Kalijhora, Riyang, and Bangey (Nazok) villages where he interacted with the residents.
In his media statement, Bista said:
“Following my visit and discussions, the NHPC officials in Kalijhora have committed to processing a request for a 70-meter long protection wall to safeguard the village from potential flood threats. The NHPC has also allocated Rs 6 crore for the construction of a higher elevated bridge over the Relli River and an elevated approach road to Nazok aimed at ensuring year-round accessibility. The NHPC will also construct a protective wall on both sides of the Relli river to prevent further erosion in Bangey and Nazok.”
Raju Bista
The Darjeeling MP added that the IRCON officials have committed to commence construction of a protective wall on their dumping site in Riyang.
“The Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways have also allocated Rs 500 crore as emergency grant to address the needs of NH-10. They are further allocating Rs 2000 crore for the development and expansion of NH-10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced further construction of 3 crore new homes under PMAY and I will do my best to include the names of Teesta Flood victims in it. They can become eligible to receive homes under the PMAY scheme in the coming days,” said Bista.
The Darjeeling MP maintained that the West Bengal government has not taken any steps to help the flood victims of the area.