**Maharashtra Government Eases Fund Utilization Norms to Boost Flood Relief Efforts**

In a bid to revive public life in flood-hit areas, the Maharashtra government has decided to relax norms to make funds available on an immediate basis. Through a directive issued on Monday, authorities have allowed the utilisation of funds originally meant for district development schemes to now aid flood mitigation and relief activities.

### District Funds Can Now Be Used for Flood Mitigation

The district planning and development funds (DPDC), which previously excluded post-disaster mitigation work, can now be used according to state-approved norms and guidelines. This significant change enables district authorities to swiftly undertake crucial relief operations such as:

– Hiring equipment for rescuing stranded people
– Setting up relief camps
– Reviving drinking water schemes
– Disposing of carcasses of animals that died in floods
– Starting cattle camps where necessary
– Restoring power supply
– Repairing or reconstructing damaged roads and bridges

### Central Assistance May Face Delays

While the state has formally requested funds from the Centre for relief and rehabilitation of flood-affected areas, central assistance is expected to face delays. This is primarily due to ongoing assessments to determine the exact extent of damages and requirements.

In the meantime, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced an immediate relief package exceeding ₹2,200 crore. However, the actual disbursal of these funds has yet to begin.

### Fiscal Allocation and Historical Context

The government has earmarked approximately ₹20,000 crore for the DPDC in the current fiscal year. It is important to note that in 2014, Maharashtra had allowed the use of DPDC funds for calamity relief and rehabilitation, but this provision was stayed in August this year.

The newly issued guidelines now permit up to 10% of DPDC funds to be utilised specifically for flood relief operations.

### Role of District Authorities Under New Guidelines

The DPDC is chaired by the district guardian minister, with the district collector acting as its ex officio secretary. As per the new directive, district collectors have the authority to initiate urgent repairs and reconstruction of critical infrastructure, including schools, anganwadis, other public buildings, and protective walls in flood-affected regions.

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This move aims to expedite flood relief work on the ground and help restore normalcy in the affected districts at the earliest.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-allows-immediate-use-of-district-funds-for-flood-relief-and-rehabilitation