In a devastating natural calamity, Himachal Pradesh has recently been hit by the harshest rain and flood disasters it has witnessed in the past 75 years. As the state struggles to recover from the aftermath of flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall, the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, revealed that the estimated loss incurred by the state stands at a staggering ₹8,000 crore.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgency of financial assistance from the Union Government to support the state in its recovery efforts. He expressed that the situation demands immediate relief measures to help the affected regions restore essential infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water supply.
A central team has already visited the state to assess the extent of the damages caused by the rain-induced disasters. Chief Minister Sukhu stated that they have formally requested the pending ₹315 crore from the 2022-23 disaster fund allocated by the Union Government. The additional financial assistance of ₹8,000 crore is crucial to help Himachal Pradesh cope with the colossal damages and initiate the rebuilding process.
“Our priority is to save the lives of the people, and we are fully prepared with teams on standby to handle any emergency situation caused by continuous heavy rainfall,” the Chief Minister assured, emphasizing the importance of timely rescue and relief operations.
Amidst the challenging times, the Chief Minister also took the opportunity to address the statements made by the former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Jai Ram Thakur. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu accused Thakur of indulging in politics at a time when the state is grappling with the disaster’s aftermath. He disputed claims that disaster relief funds had been fully provided by the Union Government, suggesting that such assertions were politically motivated.
“I don’t want to answer Jai Ram Thakur. He is doing politics on it. But I would request him that we should go altogether with all parties to get the first installment of disaster relief to Himachal Pradesh,” stated the Chief Minister, urging a united front in seeking financial aid to alleviate the distress faced by the state.
The situation in Himachal Pradesh remains critical, and authorities are actively engaged in rescue and relief operations. As the state continues to grapple with the devastating impact of the flash floods, the appeal for immediate financial support from the Union Government takes center stage.
The loss of lives, properties, and livelihoods has been immense, and the road to recovery is bound to be arduous. In such a dire situation, the solidarity and cooperation of all political parties are crucial to ensure that the people of Himachal Pradesh receive the necessary assistance and support to rebuild their lives and communities. The central government’s response to this urgent call for relief will play a pivotal role in shaping the state’s recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
