US extends Rs 23.5 lakh initial grant to flood-hit Orissa

Villagers wade through floodwaters as they return home as water recedes in Benasahi village, 55 kms from Bhubaneswar in Orissa on Sept. 16, 2011. Photo: AP

The US on Tuesday announced an initial grant of Rs 23,25,000 ($ 50,000) as emergency relief for flood victims in Orissa.

On behalf of the American people, the US Charge d’ Affaires to India, Peter Burleigh, offered his condolences to the families of those killed in the deluge and his sympathy to the thousands of people affected, a release from the US embassy said here.

The US contribution will complement the relief efforts of the Indian government in Orissa and will be closely coordinated with district-level officials, it said.