Gangtok:
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has announced Rs 1000 crore as relief funds for quake-hit Sikkim. The PM also said accommodation will be provided to those rendered homeless.
The Centre will also provide assistance for earthquake proof buildings in the state. Reconstruction of rural roads, school buildings and public buildings will also be funded by the Centre.
Dr Singh is on a daylong visit in Sikkim today to assess and review the damage caused by the September 18 earthquake. The 6.8-magnitude tremor killed close to 80 people and left about 350 injured in the state.
"On arrival in Gangtok after making the aerial survey, the prime minister visited the injured at the Sikkim Manipal Hospital," a government spokesperson said.
Dr Singh will also hold a review meeting with Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling in Gangtok. Earlier, he arrived in Bagdogra from New Delhi before boarding an Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter for the aerial survey.
(
With agency inputs)