Compensation sought for land erosion

Kolkata, March 29 (IANS) Saying erosion in West Bengal has become a major problem, a minister Thursday called for the central government's intervention and compensation for those affected.

"The problem of erosion in Malda and Murshidabad (districts) has become big enough to be a national problem. It is not possible for the state to tackle it alone," Irrigation Minister Manas Bhunia said in the assembly.

He said the livelihood of people living in areas close to the river had been largely affected and they should be compensated much like the victims of natural disasters like flood or earthquake.

Describing the erosion which is eating out large landmass as a peculiar problem, Bhunia said the government will conduct several studies including geo-hydraulic study to ascertain the extent of damage.