Huge loss! Chamber of Commerce seeks Dispur's help

Silchar: As the devastating flood had caused immense loss to the trading community, southern Assam chapter of Assam Chamber of Commerce sought the intervention from the State government so that business could come back to the normal track. In a letter to Ashok Singhal, the Guardian Minister of Cachar, Vivek Podder, president of the organisation said, suitable financial support coupled with monetary back-up from banks with interest-free moratorium was the need of the hour.

Pranab Paul Choudhury, president of Foodgrain Merchant Association said, the loss incurred would not be less than Rs 2,000 crores. He too sought government assistance in terms of short-time loan. Otherwise entire market would suffer in a massive way, he feared.

Podder in a letter to Singhal, copy of which was also sent to the Chief Minister said, recent floods have affected not only the property and lives but also the small traders had been badly hit. As the flood waters entered the city in a span of few hours and in some areas while people were sleeping , they could hardly protect their small shops and their stock.

Appreciating the steps taken by the government in terms of food relief and is even considering support for property lost, Podder said, it would be extremely important if steps were taken to support the small traders.

Podder further said, It would be extremely helpful if the government could provide interest-free loan of Rs one lakh to all such traders with 75 per cent subsidy provided they register themselves under trade licence. Also a free insurance scheme for all such traders to protect them from future uncertainities would be a great help, he added.

Podder further suggested steps like skill development programne and easy loans in a range of Rs one lakh to Rs 10 lakh under the Prime Minister's different development schemes with special emphasis of promoting lady entrepreneurs.

Underlining that since 2007, most insurance companies had stopped flood insurance in many areas of Silchar, Podder suggested that this matter needs to be addressed from the government by having a coordination meeting with the insurance companies to find a solution for protecting the businessmen of this area. It is for this reason that even established business firms who have suffered losses must also be supported as their losses are also irrecoverable due to the flood insurance restrictions put up by most insurers.

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