Patna: A viral video from flood-hit Samastipur has raised questions over the manner in which relief material was distributed and concerns over villagers’ safety.The video, which surfaced on Tuesday, shows men on a boat throwing sacks of relief material towards villagers standing in waist-deep water. A large number of people can be seen wading through the water and pushing against one another while trying to collect the supplies.The visuals have raised concerns over safety precautions during relief work. The district administration has taken note of the video and ordered an inquiry.ADM (disaster management), Samastipur, Rajesh Kumar Singh said the administration received the video on Tuesday and directed officials to investigate the circumstances surrounding the distribution. He said the distribution was not being carried out by the govt.“The administration has strictly instructed that no relief material should be distributed or any relief work undertaken without prior permission. Keeping in mind law and order as well as the safety of people, permission has to be taken before undertaking any relief activity,” Singh said.He said the administration was concerned about the safety of flood-affected people and would not compromise on it. “Appropriate action will be taken after the inquiry,” he added.The directions come amid ongoing relief operations in flood-hit areas, where several villages remain inundated and residents depend on govt and voluntary agencies for essential supplies.
