Gangtok: 19th September, 2011

Sikkim Chief Minister and President of Sikkim’s ruling party Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), Dr. Pawan Chamling, convened a condolence meeting for Sikkim earthquake victims in the Party Head Quarters on Monday afternoon. The meeting condoled the death of all who lost their lives due to the massive earthquake that hit the state and adjoining areas Sunday evening at 6:11 pm.

The condolence meet was attended by all senior party functionaries and other party workers. A two minute silence was observed in prayer for the departed souls numbering 22 till today.

During this solemn occasion it was resolved that the Party President, the SDF family and other party workers send their deepest condolence to the bereaved families. That the SDF Party promises to provide all support and help to those families who are in dire need at this difficult time. The party will not leave any stoned unturned to deliver relief, rehabilitation and succor to those in need.

The Party President, Dr. Chamling also appealed to all the people of Sikkim to stand together in this time of crisis which is due to a natural calamity. He said that let us all work together to pull through this situation and come out stronger. He also sent out a message to all the other political parties to rise above party politics and to work with the people and Government in helping reach the relief and medical supplies to the needy. He also appealed to the NGOs, other organizations, youth, students and all Central Agencies to work hand in hand with the Government to restore normalcy.

Dr. Chamling directed all the SDF Party functionaries and other Frontal Organisations to immediately fan out to their constituencies and Panchayat blocks to coordinate relief and rehabilitation measures in conjunction with the Government officials.
He listed the immediate relief that is available after his discussion in Mintogang this morning which the Government will be providing.

To the next of kin of the deceased an exgratia payment of Rs. 5 Lakhs will be paid, whomsoever they may be. To those critically injured Rs. 50,000 and those with minor injuries Rs. 25,000.

To those who have lost pucca houses an exgratia of Rs. 50,000 ; katcha house loss will be paid Rs. 25,000 and partially damaged Rs. 15,000 Loss of cattle/cow etc will be paid Rs. 10,000; loss of pig Rs. 5,000 and loss of goat Rs. 3,000. All these will have to be certified by the Animal Husbandry officials.

The CM informed the gathering that as of now the estimated number of house collapses and major damage was about 1,000. This includes the main secretariat which has seen major damage. The main secretariat building is being evacuated. The CM’s office has been already shifted to Sammaan Bhawan.

Dr. Chamling also informed that all roads, including the National and State Highways have suffered severe damage which included the PMGSY roads and District roads. Many of the bridges have also developed cracks some of them severe. Assessment teams have already been dispatched.

Minor irrigation channels and water supply are disrupted all over the State. The old, lower Lagyap hydro power water conductor breached near Nandok village which has caused some loss to the villagers there.

The meeting was brought to a close with a solemn pledge to bring the situation back to normalcy as soon as possible and with a prayer of thanks to the Almighty for saving Sikkim from what could have been a huge catastrophe.

Press Release
SDF Party Publicity

 

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