CM Sukhu has informed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the widespread destruction caused by torrential rains in Mandi district, especially in Seraj and Dharampur areas. In a press briefing, the CM announced that the state government will provide ₹5,000 per month as rental assistance to families whose homes were damaged and are currently living in rented accommodations.
He stated that 69 lives have been lost, 110 people injured, and 37 remain missing due to the monsoon-related calamities. 14 cloudbursts have been reported in Mandi alone this season, prompting the CM to call for a study into the increasing frequency of such events.
Union Support and Central Team Visit
CM Sukhu held a telephonic conversation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured full central support and informed that a central assessment team will soon visit the state to review the damage.
Relief Measures and Ground Situation
The CM confirmed:
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Over ₹700 crore in damages due to rain-related disasters
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Around 300 roads blocked, 790 water supply schemes damaged, and 332 power transformers affected
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In Mandi, 402 people rescued and 92 students and teachers evacuated from Forestry and Horticulture College, Thunag
He directed SDMs to ensure food supply to all affected areas and said ministers are conducting review meetings within their departments to assess and address the damage.
Concerns Over Construction Practices
Addressing questions on infrastructure, CM Sukhu criticized the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for awarding contracts to large firms unfamiliar with the state’s fragile hill terrain. He suggested local contractors should be considered, as poor hill-cutting practices are exacerbating the damage.
Relief Operations in Full Swing
According to a government spokesperson, rescue and relief efforts continue on a war footing, especially in Mandi district, which remains the worst-hit. Key updates include:
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241 water schemes damaged in Thunag, with 66 restored
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164 roads still blocked in Mandi; 31 JCBs and 3 poclain machines deployed
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Relief supplies reaching villages like Surah, Rukchui, Bharad, and Piyala Deji
In Thunag sub-division, 65 victims have been rescued and provided with medical care, with NDRF and SDRF teams actively operating under challenging conditions.
