Hundreds of dwelling units in over 40 villages along Sultej in his border district have either developed cracks or in some cases, the houses have been Totally damaged due to onslaught by river, leaving the water folks in the lurch.
At certain locations, the entire foundation has caved in or roofs have fallen down much to the distress of these of these people most of whom are either marginal farmers or daily wagers.
Ramesh Kumar, a resident of Nai Gatti Rajo Ke, said that his house is situated close to a ‘Kutcha Bandh’ in the village. “When the water level increased, we left the house and moved to a safer place. We came back yesterday after the water level receded, we found that several cracks had appeared on the wall,” said Ramesh.
It is not an isolated case here. “Even the belongings which had been kept in the house has been destroyed,” he said.
Though the water level has come up during the past two days, it would take weeks for accumulated water to seep into the ground. This could trigger skin diseases and other ailments, said Ashok Behal, Secretary, Red Cross. He said they would organize medical camps in various villages to prevent the spread of diseases.
Rajesh Dhiman, DC, said that already an amount of 22 crore has been received by the district administration to provide to provide compensation to the affected people. It has been sent to the SDMs for further disbursements with help of revenue officials.
Meanwhile, Kaluwala village, which has been submerged in floodwater for past 50 days, has virtually become an abandoned island as most of the residents have shifted to another places.