As the cold wave conditions continue to lash Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav declared that directions have been given to the district magistrates to provide relief to the poor in form of bonfire and blankets.

“We have asked all the district officials to ensure that no one dies of cold. They should be protected and provided relief at the earliest,” Yadav told reporters here on Tuesday. He said that all the districts have enough funds to run bonfires and distribute blankets to the poor. The nagar nigams have been asked to organize bonfires at main city crossings. Besides, more funds would be given to the districts for the purpose.

Money have also been sanctioned at tehsil level to purchase blankets,” he said and added: “The government is monitoring the relief work. The relief commissioner has been asked to submit report on daily basis.” Meanwhile, 14 more deaths were reported in the state during the past 24 hours. 
later taking a review meeting of power sector Chief Minister said that in view of prevailing cold wave conditions electricity should be supplied to villages as per roster. The local faults should be rectified on the priority basis and where need be more employees on the ad hoc basis should be employed, he said.

“The government is committed to provide electricity for 16 hour in villages and 22 hour in cities. We are working in this direction. The targets have been set and officials should meet the same in a time bound manner,” he said. Chief Minister declared that from now on monthly meetings would be held to ensure people get required electricity.