Modi announces relief for GAIL's gas pipeline blast victims

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday announced an ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh each to the next of kin of those killed in a gas pipeline disaster in Andhra Pradesh.

"This is in addition to the relief assistance given by the petroleum ministry and GAIL," an official statement said. Officials said at least 14 died in the explosion and fire.

Announcing the sanction from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund, Modi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured in the incident in East Godavari district.