Date:12/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/01/12/stories/2005011202760300.htm

Back India has sought tsunami aid: World Bank, ADB

Our Bureau

Mumbai , Jan. 11

THE World Bank and the Asian Development Bank announced today that they have received a request from the Union Government for aid to rehabilitate tsunami-affected people.

A press release from the multilateral agency said the assistance requested is for rebuilding infrastructure, both public and private, and for rehabilitation of livelihoods of those affected in the tsunami disaster, and assistance in developing disaster prevention and management systems for the future.

Initial estimates had put the loss of life in excess of 10,000 and the loss of property at about $1.5 billion (around Rs 6,557 crore).

The World Bank and the ADB will now work with the Government of India to organise a needs assessment, and on that basis develop a programme of support for reconstruction and recovery.

"It is truly impressive to see the way India has responded in providing basic necessities to the affected people. Our first priority is to ascertain the extent of damage and then work together with the Government on a programme of reconstruction and rehabilitation to help affected people rebuild their lives," a World Bank release quoted Mr Michael Carter, Country Director, India, World Bank.

The release said Mr Louis de Jonghe, Country Director, ADB, joined the World Bank in praising India's initial response to this tragedy, and said ADB stood ready to contribute to the rebuilding of infrastructure and rehabilitation of livelihoods of people in the affected States of India.