CM Sukhu announced that large-scale relief and restoration operations are being carried out on a war footing in disaster-hit areas of Himachal Pradesh, particularly in Thunag, Janjheli, and surrounding regions of Mandi district, which were severely impacted by recent cloudbursts and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall.
To ensure swift and coordinated action, the Chief Secretary is conducting daily review meetings with all departments. Teams from the State and National Disaster Response Forces have been deployed in the worst-hit zones, supported by officials from PWD, HPSEBL, and Jal Shakti departments, as well as police, homeguards, and local volunteers.
The CM directed departments to work in close coordination to restore road connectivity, electricity, and water supply. A massive operation involving 289 JCBs, 16 dozers, 15 robots, and 111 tippers is underway to clear debris and reopen 392 blocked roads across the state. Of these, 196 were set to reopen today, with others expected to follow shortly. Estimated road infrastructure damage stands at ₹182 crore, with ₹47 crore reported in Mandi district alone.
In parallel, the Jal Shakti department is restoring damaged water and irrigation systems under challenging conditions. Temporary solutions like gravity-based schemes, hand pumps, and natural sources are being utilized to provide clean drinking water. Panchayats have been given testing kits to ensure water safety.
Power infrastructure also suffered extensive damage, especially in Thunag and Janjheli. The HPSEBL reported losses of ₹20 crore, with power supply to 258 transformers disrupted. The Gohar-Thunag 33 KV line has been restored, with ongoing efforts to revive other lines. Five HPSEBL teams, comprising 60 personnel, are working round-the-clock.
To improve communication in affected areas, the Department of Telecommunications has activated Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) in Thunag and deployed ISATs for emergency connectivity.
A total of 246 ration kits have been air-dropped and distributed across Thunag, Janjheli, and Dharampur relief camps. The Chief Minister praised the tireless efforts of frontline workers and emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring normalcy and supporting affected communities. Relief and rehabilitation measures are being monitored at the highest level to ensure timely and effective response.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
