The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

The Department for International Development (DFID) of Britain has sanctioned five million US dollars equivalent to Taka 35 crore for cyclone victims.

The money is being channelled through the UN and will be used for providing food, water, medical treatment and house repairing. Assessment of needs is being carried out in most affected districts, said a DFID press release.

Country representative of the DFID in Bangladesh Chris Austin said, "Cyclone Sidr has a devastating effect on people, poverty and crops. But causalities and damage could have been much more if the excellent early warning system and contingency measures are not taken by the Bangladesh government".

The DFID praised the government for taking preparations and prompt efforts to bring relief to the affected people.

This year the UK provided US$ 14.5 million equivalent to Taka 101.3 crore as disaster relief for flood and disaster Victims in Bangladesh, the release added.