West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accuses Centre of denying flood relief funds, alleges excess water release from Damodar Valley Corporation led to flooding in districts.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the central government of denying flood relief funds to her state, alleging that excess water release from the Damodar Valley Corporation has led to flooding in many districts. She claimed that Bengal suffers more during monsoons due to its numerous water bodies. DVC denied all allegations of unplanned water release. Banerjee also requested the central government to desilt dams to hold extra water and help with the crisis.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the central government of denying flood relief funds to her state, alleging that excess water release from the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) has led to severe flooding in several districts. Banerjee claimed that the central government offers assistance to other states like Assam but not to West Bengal, despite the latter's vulnerability during monsoons.

According to Banerjee, the DVC has released a staggering 27,000 lakh cubic meters of water since June 18, exacerbating the flooding situation in areas such as Bankura, Medinipur, and Paschim Medinipur. She has repeatedly requested the central government to desilt dams to hold extra water and help alleviate the crisis. However, the DVC has denied any allegations of unplanned water release, stating that water is released only after discussions with the relevant authorities and stakeholders [1].

The Chief Minister also highlighted that West Bengal has taken proactive measures, such as digging 5.5 lakh ponds and building 500 check dams, to mitigate the impact of floods. Despite these efforts, the state continues to face significant challenges due to the heavy water release and the early onset of monsoons this year [2].

Banerjee has urged the central government to provide flood relief funds and support, similar to the assistance offered to Assam. She has also directed her administration to set up relief centers, monitor the flood situation closely, and ensure the availability of anti-venom and other essential supplies in affected areas [3].

The Chief Minister's accusations have sparked a debate on the responsibility of the central government and the DVC in managing water resources and providing adequate relief to flood-affected states. The situation underscores the need for coordinated efforts and effective disaster management strategies to protect vulnerable communities during monsoon seasons.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/mamata-accuses-centre-of-denying-flood-relief-funds-to-west-bengal/article69815876.ece
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/mamata-banerjee-slams-damodar-valley-corporation-for-water-release-causing-flood-like-situation-in-west-bengal/articleshow/122520132.cms
[3] https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/kolkata/fighting-every-year-but-to-no-avail-mamata-banerjee-blames-centre-dvc-for-flooding-in-bengal-10129091/lite/