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Aiming to ensure proper arrangements for the poor, destitute and homeless in the cold wave and inclement weather conditions sweeping the state for the past few days, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a relief fund of around Rs 20 crore on Saturday. As directed by the chief minister, night shelters are being established across the state and funds have also been allocated to light up bonfires and distribute free blankets to the poor and needy.
A government spokesman said in Lucknow on Saturday that Rs 5 lakh has been allocated per tehsil for the purchase of blankets, taking the total amount to Rs.17.50 crore for 350 tehsils across the state. Besides, Rs.50,000 per tehsil has been provided for arranging bonfires taking the total fund allocated Rs.1.75 crore for 350 tehsils..
“With the night temperature dipping and fog engulfing the state, the homeless and destitute on the streets and roadside have only plastic sheets to save themselves from the biting cold. Blankets distributed by the government will help the poor in distress,” the official said.
Earlier on Friday, the chief minister had directed officials to set up night shelters across the state to provide relief to the poor and homeless and protect them against the cold weather.