Government of 10 Years Ago': CM Yogi Adityanath Inspects Flood-Hit Varanasi, Assures Full Relief and Accountability
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a scathing critique of previous administrations while personally inspecting flood-hit zones in Varanasi on Saturday. Highlighting the stark transformation in governance, the Chief Minister asserted that unlike a decade ago when relief funds were allegedly misappropriated, today's administration ensures that victims receive their full rights and immediate assistance. During his visit, CM Yogi conducted an aerial survey of inundated regions and interacted directly with displaced citizens at relief camps, reaffirming the state's unwavering commitment to public welfare under the double-engine government.
Aerial Survey and Direct Relief Distribution in Varanasi
Kicking off his packed schedule, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed an aerial survey of the flooded landscapes in Varanasi, where the reverse flow of the Ganga into the Varuna River has triggered severe waterlogging in low-lying localities. Following the aerial assessment, the Chief Minister landed at the relief camp established at Vidya Vihar Inter College in Salarpur.
Here, he personally met with more than 200 flood-affected families, inquiring about their well-being and inspecting the quality of supplies. Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi emphasized that unlike past regimes where victims allegedly received meager dry rations, the current administration provides comprehensive care, including hot meals, fresh milk, fruits, and essential commodities funded through transparent central and state collaboration.
Assessing Crop Damage and Fast-Tracking Compensation
Addressing the administrative measures taken to mitigate the disaster, the Chief Minister revealed that rising waters have affected 567 families across 16 wards, while submersing approximately 131 hectares of agricultural land belonging to 1,131 farmers. Prompt surveys are currently underway to identify every impacted farmer for immediate financial relief.
CM Yogi pointed out that disaster management protocols have been drastically accelerated: financial compensation of four lakh rupees is now disbursed to grieving families within 24 hours in the event of flood-related fatalities, house collapses, lightning strikes, or snake bites. Furthermore, homeless families are being integrated into housing schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and eligible citizens are being provided free healthcare access via Ayushman cards.
Political Address and Governance Milestones
Drawing a comparison with past decades, the Chief Minister noted that proactive infrastructure management has drastically reduced the annual footprint of monsoon floods, restricting damage to 14 districts today compared to 45 districts in earlier years. He also credited robust public health initiatives for completely eradicating epidemics like encephalitis that once plagued the state's children.
Later in the day, after offering prayers at the revered Baba Kalbhairav and Kashi Vishwanath temples, CM Yogi traveled to Azamgarh. Interacting with local BJP functionaries and workers following a condolence visit, he issued a clear directive regarding upcoming electoral preparations, stressing that grass-roots engagement and effective communication of development milestones will be the ultimate benchmark for success.