Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while presiding over the video conference with Deputy Commissioners of the State from Sarahan in Sirmaur district to review the situation arisen due to the torrential rains directed them to ensure immediate relief and rescue operation besides deploying men and machinery at strategic points. Chief Minister said that major roads in apple growing areas and leading towards hospitals must be restored on priority. He said that tourists must be advised to stay away from slide prone points and river banks to avoid untoward incidents. He said that the Union Government would be requested to send additional central teams to undertake the relief and rehabilitation works.
Jai Ram Thakur said that as of now the state has reported 20 deaths during the last 24 hours. He also directed all the line departments for maintaining proper coordination for effective rescue operations. He directed the Deputy Commissioners to take decisions regarding closure of schools in their respective districts as per requirement. He expressed grief over the deaths reported due to landslides and flash floods and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss. Chief Secretary R.D. Dhiman ensured that every possible arrangement would be made to restore damaged roads and all essential services.
