Rp 86b earmarked for flood relief

JAKARTA (JP): The National Development Planning Board has set aside funds totaling Rp 85.95 billion (US$9.3 million) for this year's flood relief program, an official said.

Leo Yanmer Sianturi of the city's Public Works agency said on Thursday that about 97 percent of the relief funds would be used to buy basic necessities for flood victims.

"This will include purchasing food, dinghies, ambulances, kitchen utensils, tents, support vehicles and electric generators," Leo, who heads the agency's water management unit, said.

"The remaining Rp 2.82 billion of the aid has been used up in supervision and planning costs," he said.

The current wet season is expected to cause heavy floods in 146 locations in 128 subdistricts within the next few weeks, according to Tabril Dachlan, an official from the city's social welfare agency. (ylt)