Finance Minister unveils Rs 1 billion support package for cyclone victims

The Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development, Dr Renganaden Padayachy, has unveiled a comprehensive support package in response to Tropical Cyclone Belal, allocating a budget of around Rs 1 billion.

Key initiatives include financial aid for families enduring prolonged power outages, with 50,000 households set to receive Rs 2,000 to offset spoiled food expenses.

Those with flood-damaged vehicles, whether fully or third-party insured, will receive financial assistance from the Financial Services Commission for repairs or insurance payouts.

Support extends to small-scale farmers, fishermen, breeders, and honey producers, with various financial aids. The Development Bank of Mauritius introduces a loan scheme offering up to Rs 500,000 at a 1% interest rate for affected parties.

Additionally, about Rs 500 million is allocated for repairing public infrastructure.

Minister Jeewa-Daureeawoo delved into a range of measures aimed at assisting and providing support to victims impacted by Tropical Cyclone Belal – Individuals staying at the 163 designated centers are eligible for flood and cyclone allowances.

Families spending a night at a center will receive Rs 250 per person for cyclone allowances, and a flood allowance of Rs 250 per person will be granted for up to three days.

The National Empowerment Foundation is actively assisting 83 families on the Social Register of Mauritius, providing school materials to children in shelters and distributing food packs to cyclone-affected individuals.

These measures collectively aim to alleviate the impact of Tropical Cyclone Belal and support the recovery of affected citizens.

Source: Government Information Services