DVC releasing water to save itself, flooding Bengal: CM
Times of India | 16 July 2025
Kolkata: CM Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) was releasing water to save itself while causing floods in Bengal. "DVC released nearly 27,000 lakh cubic metres of water. Despite repeated requests, they refuse to make repairs and instead release water to save themselves, causing Bengal to flood," she said. The comments came at a meeting at Nabanna to discuss the flood situation in the state.
The CM lamented that the situation hadn't improved despite state govt's all-round efforts. "I have been fighting for 14 years, and several state teams, including those from the irrigation department, visited (central authorities) repeatedly. I personally wrote to the Prime Minister and mentioned it in NITI Aayog and eastern zonal council meetings. But nothing was done.
"Banerjee alleged Centre doesn't help even in relief work, adding, "Assam receives flood-relief funds but Bengal only gets floods.
" "They release water and flood the people but don't even provide money to buy a piece of cloth. We have to do everything ourselves," she alleged.
To address the flood situation, the CM told 10 district administrations, especially West Midnapore, Jhargram, Hooghly and Howrah, to stay alert. She ordered the rapid establishment of relief camps in low-lying areas and told DMs, SPs, BDOs and ICs to ensure food, medicines and clean drinking water are in abundance. A control room will be set up which the CM will personally supervise.
"We are conducting regular surveillance. Relief camps should remain operational until the situation normalises. I have also instructed (officials) to ensure anti-venom medicines are stocked in flooded areas and relief camps," she said.
Addressing officials, the CM said, "Even if people are in trouble, they may not be able to express it openly but as representatives of govt, you must reach out to them and extend a helping hand. Ensure that not a single person is deprived of govt assistance during this disaster.
"Banerjee also appealed to political parties for cooperation. "Remember, the flood situation is due to release of water by DVC. Our workers will work round-the-clock to manage this disaster," she said.