U'khand cloudburst: President Mukherjee condoles loss of lives

President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday wrote to state Governor K.K Paul, conveying his condolences on the loss of lives due to cloudburst and heavy rains in Uttarakhand.

In his message, the President said that he was saddened by the loss of lives due to cloudburst and heavy rains yesterday in Uttarakhand and acknowledged the rescue as well as search operations.

President Mukherjee stated that his thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this natural calamity, adding that the was sure that the State Government and other agencies are taking necessary steps to provide all possible help to the bereaved families who have lost their near and dear ones as well as medical assistance to the injured.

Earlier today, asserting that the situation was now under control and that there was no cause to panic, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat said that the death toll following the cloudbursts in the state stood at 17 and that operations were underway to locate the missing 15 people.

Speaking to ANI here, Rawat said that the state government is completely mobilised to ensure that aid was provide to those affected by the natural calamity, adding that round the clock vigil was being maintained.

He also announced a compensation of Rs. 2 lakh each to families of victims and said that 179 people have been affected as their homes have been destroyed.

Rawat stated that the state government will seek help from the Centre if needed and called on the people to maintain calm.

"I request that people should not be in fear and be assured that they will be safe. We will take care and are duty-bound to protect the people," Rawat said.