Rain mayhem: Rs 14.31 cr provided to 1,761 affected families in Banjar

Subdivisional Magistrate (SDM) Pankaj Sharma has stated that financial assistance of around Rs 14.31 crore has been disbursed to 1,761 families affected by the excessive rainfall during the monsoon season last year in Banjar.

The SDM stated that the downpour had led to widespread destruction across the Banjar Assembly constituency. He added that the natural calamity resulted in partial to complete damage to numerous residential buildings. Further, several areas witnessed land subsidence and slides, which caused severe losses to agricultural and horticultural crops.

To ensure transparency and accuracy in identifying the victims, the administration constituted a three-member committee in Banjar and Sainj tehsils. The committee, comprising panchayat secretary, patwari and Junior Engineer was tasked with surveying the damage. Based on their assessment, a list of affected families was prepared in accordance with the criteria of the Special Relief Package 2025.

Providing a breakdown of the funds disbursed, the SDM said Rs 8.70 crore was released from the Special Relief Package for families whose homes were completely destroyed. The financial aid has directly benefited 322 families. He said, “For those whose homes suffered partial damage, the administration provided financial assistance totaling Rs 5.38 crore. The amount has been distributed to 611 eligible families.”

He added that in response to the damage caused by land subsidence and extensive loss of agricultural and horticultural crops, the government released Rs 23.26 lakh. This amount was allocated for land improvement and crop compensation, supporting 828 eligible families.

The officer emphasised the administration’s commitment to a transparent process, stating that the entire relief amount was transferred directly to the bank accounts of the eligible beneficiaries through a streamlined procedure.

He added that the administration prioritised the rehabilitation efforts to ensure swift aid reached the affected families. Looking ahead, the SDM assured that disaster management systems are being further strengthened to effectively handle and mitigate the impact of such calamities in the future.