The Jharkhand State Disaster Management Authority (JSDMA) on Tuesday decided to increase the ex-gratia amount from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 4 lakh for the families of victims who die in road accidents. This decision was taken during a meeting of JSDMA attended by Disaster Management Department Minister Irfan Ansari and other officials.
Government's move to align with other disasters
Minister Ansari stated, "The government is working to control road accidents through various interventions. However, considering the incidents, it has been decided to include road accident deaths at par with other disasters in the state by granting the same ex-gratia." This means families of road accident victims will now receive compensation similar to those affected by natural calamities.
Standard Operating Procedure for ERSS
To improve disaster response, JSDMA also decided to form a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS). An official explained, "The state currently runs the Yuva Aapda Mitra Scheme in Dumka, Godda, Pakur and Sahibganj districts, which will be extended to other areas. Additionally, a database of volunteers associated with this scheme will be prepared and linked with ERSS, so that their services can be easily accessed in times of need."
Simplification of ex-gratia process
The department is further working on plans to simplify the process of providing ex-gratia grants to dependents of those deceased in various identified local disasters. This aims to ensure timely and hassle-free compensation to affected families.
