Par panel appreciates govt's efforts in Sundarbans

Appreciating the efforts for reconstruction and improvement of embankments of mangrove forests in Sunderbans in West Bengal, a Parliamentary Committee has asked the government to monitor activities there for timely completion and effective result.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources noted that out of the Rs 525.75 crore central assistance for the purpose, Rs 370 has reportedly been used.
"The Committee appreciated the efforts made for the reconstruction, remodelling and improvement of embankment of Sunderbans and adjoining areas, and desire the government to continuously monitor the various activities being undertaken under the project for its timely completion with effective results," it said.

The Committee tabled its report in the Parliament today.
The scheme for reconstruction of mangrove forests in Sunderban has been titled as 'Project for Reconstruction, Remodeling and Improvement of Embankments in Sunderban'
It also covers the adjoining areas in North and South Parganas districts which were damanged by cyclone AILA in 2009.

The project has been formulated by Irrigation and Waterways Directorate (I&WD) of the Government of West Bengal.
The Committee report mentioned that the project was cleared at an estimated cost or Rs 5,032 crore by the Ganga Flood Control Commission in January 2010 and was approved by the Advisory Committee of the Union Water Resources Ministry.

"First phase of the scheme with an estimated cost of Rs 1,339.50 crore has been included for providing central assistance under the State Sector Scheme 'Flood Management Program'. This phase involves acquisition of 5,996 acres of land," the report said.