SHIMLA, July 4: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday said that rescue and relief operations were in full swing across rain-affected regions of the state and that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had assured all possible assistance.
Addressing the media, Sukhu said he had spoken directly to Shah about the damages caused by recent heavy rains and landslides. “We’ve reported losses exceeding ₹700 crore, and a Central team will soon visit to assess the damage on ground,” he said.
Slamming the Leader of Opposition for politicising the disaster, Sukhu added, “This is a time to stand with the people, not mislead them. He had spoken with me just yesterday and has also been in touch with senior officers. We’ve tried to deliver all possible help, including ration to affected families.”
The Chief Minister announced that the state government would provide ₹5,000 per month as house rent to families whose homes were damaged and are currently living in rented accommodations. SDMs have also been instructed to ensure food supplies reach all those affected.
Sukhu noted that the Seraj and Dharampur areas of Mandi district were among the worst-hit, with as many as 14 cloudburst incidents reported from Mandi alone this monsoon. “It is alarming and requires scientific study. I have raised this concern with the Union Home Minister as well,” he said.
Widespread damage has been reported to roads, electricity infrastructure, and water supply schemes. According to the Chief Minister, 300 roads are currently blocked across the state, 790 drinking water schemes have been damaged, and 332 power transformers are non-functional.
In Mandi district alone, more than 400 people have been rescued so far.
Responding to questions about National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects in Himachal, Sukhu said the agency should consider awarding contracts to local contractors who understand the terrain better and can respond more efficiently during crises.
