Mamata Criticizes Central Government Over West Bengal Flood Mismanagement

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the central government's handling of floods in West Bengal, accusing the Damodar Valley Corporation of releasing water without proper consultation. Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil refuted the claims, stating that state officials were informed at every stage. Banerjee also highlighted delays in central assistance and insufficient budget for flood management.

In a recent letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee voiced her concerns over the flood situation in the state, alleging that the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) released water without adequately consulting her government, leading to severe inundation in several districts.

Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil responded by stating that West Bengal officials were kept in the loop at every stage of water release from the DVC reservoirs, which was deemed essential to avert a major disaster. He emphasized that the actions were taken by consensus with the Damodar Valley Reservoir Regulation Committee.

Banerjee, however, disputed Paatil's claims, stating that the decisions were made unilaterally by the Central Water Commission and the Ministry of Jal Shakti. She also highlighted significant delays in central assistance and budget allocations, exacerbating the flood management challenges in West Bengal.

(With inputs from agencies.)