Maharashtra drought: Now, Union minister Radha Mohan Singh's helicopter trip kicks up a storm

After Maharashtra's state revenue and agriculture minister Eknath Khadse, it is now Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh's visit to drought-hit Bhiwandi on Monday that has been criticised. According to a report by an English daily, around 10,000 litres of water was used to make a temporary helipad for Singh's meeting with farmers.

For Singh's visit, a make-shift helipad was reportedly made at Anjur Dive and the water was used to ensure that the dust does not blow up during the helicopter's landing. 

However, Dayanand Nene, a BJP functionary, suggested that the helipad at Thane 22 kms away could have been used instead. He has also written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to end 'helicopter tourism'.

Though there was no official confirmation on the quantum of water used, officials accepted that water from tankers had been used at the site.