Floods in South India

Press Statement

The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expresses serious concern over the flash floods and loss of life and property in Karnataka, parts of Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Orissa. Northern and Coastal Karnataka have been the worst hit with the death toll being over 150. 37 deaths have been reported from Andhra Pradesh so far. There have been loss of lives in the other states too and the toll is expected to go up. Lakhs of people have been displaced. The CPI(M) expresses solidarity with the suffering people of these states and condoles the loss of lives.

In Karnataka 15 districts have been affected and five districts have been affected in Andhra Pradesh. In view of the extraordinary situation arising out of the flash floods, the CPI(M) demands an immediate assessment of damages by a Parliamentary team and declaring a National calamity in the worst hit areas. Relief measures on a war-footing have to be undertaken and the State Governments must be provided with all the required help. In the light of the threat from overflowing reservoirs, immediate steps have to be taken to evacuate the marooned people and animals in such places.

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) calls upon all its members to cooperate in relief efforts, involve with the relief activities and provide voluntary service in the affected areas.