Kolhapur : MLAs from Maharashtra ’s drought-declared talukas can now spend up to Rs 25 lakh from their local area development funds on measures to tackle water and fodder scarcity, according to a state govt decision.
Each MLA gets Rs 5 crore annually for development works in their constituency. Govt has now allowed part of this money to be used for immediate drought-relief measures in the 265 talukas declared drought-hit. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kolhapur | Silver Rate in Kolhapur | Bank Holidays in Kolhapur | Public Holidays in Kolhapur Stay updated with the latest Kolhapur news.
Rural development minister Jaykumar Gore said funds would be freed up by putting some infrastructure works, including construction of concrete roads, on hold. No new schemes will receive funds through the district planning and development council, he said. The department will then consider the proposal for approval as a “special case”, according to the govt resolution issued on Monday.
The funds can be used to acquire wells and borewells and make drinking water arrangements. MLAs can also fund plastic water tanks, temporary piped-water schemes and repairs to existing tanks. Other permitted works include deepening and desilting wells, drilling new borewells and installing power feeders for water pumps. Pits can also be dug in riverbeds to tap water. The money can also be used to tackle the fodder crisis. This includes supplying fodder, providing equipment for feeding animals and building shelters for gaushalas. Under the new mechanism, MLAs will suggest drought-relief works to the district collector. The collector will prepare a detailed proposal and forward it to the planning department. Download the TOI App.