In light of the rising frequency and severity of natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh, ACS (Revenue) K.K. Pant has called for revised norms for disaster relief and rehabilitation, tailored specifically to the state’s unique geographical conditions.
Pant made these remarks during a meeting held today with the Multi-Sectoral Central Team (MSCT), constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs to examine the growing trend of natural calamities in the region. The MSCT, led by Col. K.P. Singh, Advisor (Ops & Comn) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), includes Dr. S.K. Negi, Prof. Arun Kumar, Dr. Neelima Satyam, and Dr. Sushmita Joseph.
Addressing the team, Pant emphasized that institutions such as the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Geological Survey of India (GSI) should conduct in-depth, on-ground studies of disaster-prone regions. He highlighted the urgent need to shift focus from post-disaster response to proactive measures, including early warning systems and enhanced pre-disaster planning.
He also reiterated CM Sukhu’s call for a comprehensive study on the alarming rise in cloudburst incidents since 2023. Among the key proposals was the establishment of a dedicated flood forecasting unit in the state, supported by CWC, along with expanded monitoring of glacial lakes and hydrological systems.
Pant advocated for the installation of advanced sensors and improved data collection tools across the state to enable real-time tracking and early alerts.
Virtual participants included Dr. Neeraj from DGRE-DRDO and Atul from GSI. The MSCT requested DGRE-DRDO to share relevant data on high-altitude regions and urged GSI to intensify its focus on sudden floods and landslides—identified as two of the most pressing hazards in the state.
Special Secretary (Revenue-Disaster Management) D.C. Rana presented data showing that since 2018, Himachal Pradesh has reported 148 cloudbursts, 294 flash floods, and over 5,000 landslides. He said districts such as Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Mandi remain particularly vulnerable. In 2023 alone, the state recorded disaster-related losses nearing ₹10,000 crore, with annual damages typically ranging between ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 crore.
Rana attributed the rise in extreme weather events largely to the impact of climate change.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both the central and state governments, reinforcing the need for coordinated efforts and scientific solutions to mitigate future disasters in Himachal Pradesh.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
