Uttarakhand floods: PM appeals to public for donations

As the magnitude of tragedy caused in Uttarakhand continues to unfold, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today issued an appeal to the public for generous donations to support the victims who have suffered "extensive devastation".

In his appeal, Singh said the central government is extending all cooperation and assistance to the state government in rescue and relief operations.

He said "extensive devastation" has been caused due to cloudbursts and floods in the state and a large number of people have died and property worth crores of rupees has been damaged.

"At this moment, affected people need our help to tide over the calamity that has fallen upon them, to survive and to rebuild their lives. I request all citizens of India to stand with our distressed fellow countrymen, and actively participate in the national effort to support them at this difficult time," the Prime Minister said.

"I appeal to all citizens to donate generously to the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund," he said.

The appeal comes against the backdrop of the Prime Minister's announcement of Rs 1000 for rescue and relief operations in the state.