Devastating Rainfall Claims 74 Lives and Triggers Massive Rescue Operations in Himachal Pradesh
In a tragic turn of events, Himachal Pradesh has been ravaged by relentless rainfall, resulting in a death toll of 74 people as of today. The Chamba district alone has reported two additional fatalities, intensifying the overall gravity of the situation. With an unwavering determination, rescue operations have managed to save around 2,074 individuals in the past three days, including 309 people from the flood-affected Kangra district. However, the relentless downpour shows no signs of abating, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting more rainfall in the state until Tuesday.
Shimla, the capital city, has witnessed the full force of nature’s wrath, experiencing three major landslides in Summer Hill, Fagli, and Krishna Nagar. These landslides tragically claimed the lives of 21 individuals, leaving the entire region reeling in grief and despair. As the search and rescue efforts continue, one more body was discovered amongst the rubble of the Shiva temple in Shimla’s Summer Hill. Tragically, there are fears that eight more people may still be buried beneath this devastating wreckage.
The aftermath of these calamitous events has left Himachal Pradesh grappling with widespread disruption. Currently, a staggering 875 roads remain blocked, hampering essential transportation and relief efforts. Furthermore, the state’s infrastructure has been severely affected, with 1,135 transformers and 285 water delivery schemes rendered inoperable.
In response to the crisis, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, personally visited the flood-affected regions on Thursday, providing reassurance and support to the affected residents. Additionally, the Chief Minister’s government has implemented measures to expedite relief efforts by relaxing the conditions for disbursing the MLA local area development fund. This change enables MLAs to allocate an annual budget of Rs. 2.10 crore for vital projects such as the construction of retaining walls and the channelization of nullahs. In a significant development, the central government has also approved a substantial funding of Rs. 2,643 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana to improve 254 rural roads in the current fiscal year.
Both the Chief Minister and Principal Secretary (Revenue), Onkar Chand Sharma, have estimated the losses caused by the monsoon season in excess of Rs. 7,500 crore and Rs. 10,000 crore, respectively. These astounding figures highlight the urgent need to accelerate the restoration process and rebuild the state’s infrastructure within the shortest possible timeframe.
While the authorities forge ahead with their rescue and relief efforts, it is essential to acknowledge the substantial impact this calamity has had on the region. By prioritizing rehabilitation and recovery, Himachal Pradesh aims to alleviate the suffering of its people and rebuild their lives. The grim situation necessitates unwavering support at both the government and individual levels, reinforcing the resilience and solidarity of the affected communities.
In order to support the ongoing efforts, it is crucial for organizations and individuals across India and abroad to rally together and extend a helping hand to the people of Himachal Pradesh. By standing united, we can help restore hope and rebuild the lives shattered by this devastating rain-induced crisis.
Let us keep those affected in our thoughts and prayers and lend our support to the rescue and rehabilitation operations taking place on the ground. Together, we can help Himachal Pradesh recover and emerge stronger from this tragic ordeal.
