PM orders immediate relief, reconstruction of houses for Amphan victims

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has ordered authorities concerned to help people affected by the cyclonic storm Amphan with relief and cash money and rebuild their damaged houses.

Secretaries and directors of the Prime Minister's Office(PMO) have started to assess the damage done by the storm, and are coordinating with the deputy commissioners (DCs) of affected districts.

Sources at the PMO's office have confirmed to The Business Standard that the office will remain open during the Eid holidays, as per the premier's directive.

The Prime Minister's Office remained open even on public holidays during the last two months. 

The premier has gone through files regularly online and offline and has given necessary instructions considering the overall situation.

She also attended regular meetings through video conferencing with the Cabinet, ECNEC, Budget, 64 districts officials and most recently the National Disaster Management Committee.

Secretary of the Prime Minister's Office Md Tofazzal Hossain Mia said, "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is collecting information every moment. Under her direction, all the office bearers will remain active even during the Eid holidays.

"From this morning, all the district and upazila officials have been instructed to work in coordination with all the ministries and agencies to monitor and take effective measures to repair the damage caused by Cyclone Amphan.''

He also said, since morning, the secretaries and directors have started working in coordination with various ministries, agencies and DCs to assess the damage caused by the cyclone.

Especially in the last two days, local administrations have been working to take coastal people to safety, arranging their meals, maintaining a safe distance, and continuing medical activities.

PMO sources said relief distribution has already started from this morning after assessing the initial damage. At the same time, clean water supply in affected areas, repair of power lines, damage to agriculture and livestock, roads, dams and houses are also being assessed