Bhubaneswar, Oct. 18: Authorities of educational institutes, hit hard by Phailin and the consequent floods, have sought for government aid to carry out repair works.

Utkal University authorities today applied to the higher education department for an assistance of Rs 10 crore for infrastructure repair.

The worst hit Berhampur University has been sanctioned Rs 3 crore to recuperate from its losses. Governor S.C. Jamir has asked the authorities to utilise the grant by March 2014.

Utkal University today announced postponement of classes from October 21 to 25.

“The hostels and classrooms have been damaged and there is no electricity. We cannot allow students to stay in the hostels or attend classes under these unsafe conditions,” said PG Council chairman P.K. Mishra.

Over 1,000 trees on the campus have been uprooted. “It was very difficult for us to assess the damages as the university technical employees are on leave. However, cracks can be seen on boundaries, hostels and most of the buildings and pipeline connections,” said registrar Banani Mohanty.

Damages to buildings and greenery have been reported from campuses of Ravenshaw University, Regional Institute of Education, BJB College, Ekamra College, Maharshi College of Natural Law, Institute of Physics and National Institute of Science Education and Research.

“The number of applications for financial aid is expected to go up gradually after the institutions reopen,” said a department official.