Tsunami: WB agrees on fast-track aid

In an attempt to provide immediate relief to the tsunami affected people of Tamil Nadu, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank are willing to fast-track their emergency programmes along with working out a comprehensive long-term rehabilitation policy, including steps for coastal protection.

A team from the two premier agencies arrived in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, on Monday to take stock of the situation in the worst affected districts of Nagapattinum and Cuddalore.

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"This is just a stock-taking visit to work out a long term strategy for reconstruction and rehabilitation, which also includes a scheme for coastal protection and betterment of the existing infrastructure and restore life," the Country Director for ADB,  Louis de Jonghe said.

"The relief package that we will provide will solely depend on the need and after our first impression with this visit," World Bank Country Director Michael F Carter said.

"World Bank has a special procedure for emergency situation. Normally it takes around two to four months to go through the process. But we should be able to fast track the entire process for immediate relief," Carter said.

"We should be working out something within the next few weeks," Carter said adding the agency will jointly work with the Centre and Tamil Nadu Government.

"The decision for the package will be worked out together and not just with the local authorities. Whatever is needed will be provided and we are not just talking about money here," he said.

Relief, he said, will be mobilised within a month's time by fast tracking the emergency fund issuing process.