Massive Losses: Rs 350.15 Crore Damage to Jal Shakti Schemes
Heavy rains wreaked havoc on the Jal Shakti vibhag (Water Resources Department) in Himachal Pradesh, resulting in a staggering loss of Rs 350.15 crore. According to HP Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, a total of 4,833 schemes under the Jal Shakti Department have been affected by the relentless rainfall, leading to this significant estimated loss.
Drinking Water Schemes Hit the Hardest
The impact of the heavy downpours was most severe on drinking water schemes situated along rivers, drains, and potholes. However, other critical sectors such as irrigation, sewerage, and flood control also suffered substantial damages. Out of the 10,067 water supply schemes in the state, 3,737 drinking water supply schemes valued at Rs 223.63 crore, 983 irrigation schemes worth Rs 85.13 crore, sewerage schemes worth Rs 30.70 crore, and 53 flood control schemes worth Rs 10 crore have been adversely affected.
Transportation Disrupted: Bus Routes Suspended, Stranded Buses
The transportation sector also faced disruptions due to the heavy rains, with 1,007 bus routes of the Himachal Road Transport Corporation being suspended. Additionally, 452 buses from state and out-of-state transport corporations were stranded at various locations due to the inclement weather conditions. To ensure safety, the Transport Corporation staff has been instructed to avoid risky areas, while bus drivers have been advised to exercise maximum caution.
Government’s Top Priority: Protecting Lives and Restoring Essential Services
Safeguarding the lives and property of the people remains the top priority for the state government in the face of heavy rains and potential floods. Adequate instructions have been issued to relevant departments for the seamless restoration of electricity, drinking water, and other essential services.
Public Works Department Takes a Hit: Roads and Bridges Damaged
The Public Works Department has suffered an estimated loss of approximately Rs 250 crore, primarily due to the extensive damage caused to roads and bridges by the surging river waters. The excessive flow of water over the roads has created hazardous conditions. Notably, six individuals stranded in the Beas River near Nangwai in Kullu were successfully rescued amidst a heavy spate.
Successful Rescue Operations: Stranded Individuals Saved
In response to critical situations arising from continuous heavy rainfall, the state government is actively monitoring affected areas. Rescue operations, led by the State Disaster Management Agency, are being carried out urgently and efficiently.
Restricted Traffic: Ghaluwal Bridge’s Closure and Reconstruction
As a precautionary measure, vehicular traffic has been restricted on the Ghaluwal bridge along the Una-Ghaluwal road. Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials and the Deputy Commissioner of Una to prepare an estimate for the bridge’s reconstruction, which will be forwarded to higher authorities.
Government Stands with the People, Urges Central Government Support
In this hour of trouble, the state government stands in solidarity with the affected people, providing all possible assistance and ensuring their security. The government also appeals to the central government to extend support to Himachal Pradesh during this critical situation.
Mukesh Agnihotri Urges Immediate Restoration Of Water Supply Schemes Amid Heavy Rains
