CM Sukhu today conducted a comprehensive review of the situation arising from the torrential rains across Himachal Pradesh and directed all district administrations to intensify rescue and relief efforts on a war footing. He emphasized the urgent restoration of essential services including electricity, water supply, and road connectivity.
Expressing appreciation for the tireless efforts of district authorities, police, NDRF and SDRF teams, departmental officers, NGOs, and volunteers, the Chief Minister said their commitment to assisting affected populations has been commendable. He also instructed officials to personally visit disaster-hit areas and ensure immediate and comprehensive support to those in distress.
There is no shortage of funds—the administration must act swiftly and effectively,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Focusing on the Manimahesh Yatra pilgrims stranded in Chamba, the Chief Minister ordered their immediate evacuation. He directed coordination with the Indian Air Force for the deployment of 5–6 MI-17 helicopters, expected to begin operations as soon as weather permits. He also asked officials to ensure food, shelter, and communication with families of the pilgrims during this time.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, currently stationed in Bharmour, is overseeing operations in the area, with instructions for constant coordination from the state capital.
The Chief Minister also took note of students from Kerala stranded in Kinnaur, directing officials to ensure their safe and free return home.
Reviewing the situation in Kullu district, particularly Banjar and Anni, the Chief Minister called for accelerated road restoration. He said heavy machinery would be airlifted with the help of the Air Force to speed up recovery. In Shimla’s Chopal area, the HPSEB was directed to restore electricity supply immediately.
With the apple harvesting season underway, the Chief Minister instructed PWD and NHAI to prioritize the restoration of road networks in apple-producing regions, to prevent losses to horticulturists.
Providing an update on the ongoing monsoon crisis, CM Sukhu said that the state has incurred losses worth ₹3,526 crore till September 2. A total of 122 landslides, 95 flash floods, and 45 cloudbursts have been reported, with 341 lives lost this monsoon season.
In the last 24 hours alone, 11 more deaths have occurred due to heavy rainfall: seven in Mandi (Sundernagar), two in Kullu, and two in Bithal (Shimla district).
The Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and said the State Government stands firmly with the affected families, assuring all possible assistance and support.
I pray for peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.
The meeting was attended by HPTDC Chairman Raghubir Singh Bali, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant, Secretary to CM Rakesh Kanwar, Special Secretary (Revenue) D.C. Rana, while Deputy Commissioners and SPs from across districts joined the meeting virtually.
