Is Himachal Pradesh CM Alarmed by Increasing Natural Disasters?
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Synopsis
On Independence Day, CM Sukhu addresses the alarming rise in natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh, revealing the state's financial struggles and announcing new relief measures. With a commitment to support affected families and combat drug issues, the Chief Minister's address highlights the urgent need for government assistance and community involvement.
Key Takeaways
- CM Sukhu emphasizes the need for immediate financial support for disaster-impacted families.
- Compensation for damaged homes has significantly increased.
- The government is launching a major disaster mitigation project.
- New initiatives are being introduced to combat drug abuse.
- Community involvement is essential in addressing these pressing issues.
Sarkaghat, Aug 15 (NationPress) In light of escalating global warming effects and the rise in natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu raised his concerns during the state-level Independence Day ceremony on Friday. He unfurled the national flag, reviewed the parade, and received the salute from an impressive march despite heavy rainfall.
The parade featured contingents from the police, Home Guards, NCC, ITBP, Uttrakhand Police, Third India Reserve Battalion of Pandoh, Mandi Police, traffic police, ex-servicemen league, and the Home Guard Band.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Umeshwar Rana led the parade. The celebration of the 79th Independence Day was marked by enthusiasm across the state, with events held at both district and sub-division levels.
In his speech, the Chief Minister expressed his worries regarding the frequent calamities that have resulted in significant losses of life and property.
He mentioned the 2023 disaster, which inflicted damages amounting to ₹10,000 crore, noting that despite the Central government's evaluation, Himachal Pradesh only received ₹1,500 crore after a two-year wait.
He highlighted that this year's disasters have disproportionately affected Mandi district, with no financial assistance from the Centre thus far.
The state government has allocated ₹360.42 crore from its own resources to support the families impacted by these disasters.
CM Sukhu expressed hope that the Centre would soon provide the necessary financial aid to the affected families.
He also announced an additional ₹100 crore for disaster-impacted families to ensure timely relief, along with the introduction of a ₹3,000 crore project designed for disaster mitigation and support for livelihoods in affected regions.
While paying tribute to the 222 individuals who lost their lives in this year’s disasters and the eight victims of a bus accident in the Sarkaghat constituency, he assured that the government “stands shoulder to shoulder with every affected family.”
Under the special relief package, he revealed that compensation for completely damaged houses has been raised from ₹1.3 lakh to ₹7 lakh, while for partially damaged houses, it has increased from ₹12,500 to ₹1 lakh.
Moreover, homes deemed uninhabitable will also qualify as fully damaged for compensation purposes.
The Chief Minister expressed his concerns regarding the issue of chitta (heroin) and stated that the government is committed to safeguarding the youth from drug abuse.
“The government has enacted the PIT NDPS Act and seized assets worth over ₹42 crore from drug traffickers. Furthermore, ‘chitta’ testing has been mandated for police recruitment,” he stated.
Additionally, he introduced the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme, aimed at training volunteers to facilitate communication between the police and the community. These young volunteers will aid in preventing the spread of chitta and support awareness initiatives while providing confidential information to law enforcement for decisive action against drug traffickers.
Point of View
The issues raised by the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister reflect a broader concern regarding climate change and its devastating effects on communities. As natural disasters become increasingly frequent, it is crucial for both state and central governments to collaborate effectively to provide timely assistance and develop long-term strategies for disaster mitigation.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the Himachal Pradesh government taking to address natural disasters?
The government has allocated ₹360.42 crore for relief efforts and announced a ₹3,000 crore project aimed at disaster mitigation and supporting livelihoods in affected areas.
How much compensation will families receive for damaged homes?
Compensation for fully damaged houses has increased from ₹1.3 lakh to ₹7 lakh, and for partially damaged homes, it has risen from ₹12,500 to ₹1 lakh.
What is the Anti-Chitta Volunteer Scheme?
This scheme aims to train volunteers to facilitate communication between the police and the public, helping prevent drug abuse and providing vital information to law enforcement.
How many lives were lost in recent disasters in Himachal Pradesh?
This year, 222 individuals lost their lives due to various natural disasters in the state.
What is the government's stance on drug-related issues?
The government has implemented the PIT NDPS Act, seized property from drug mafias, and made chitta testing mandatory for police recruitment to combat drug abuse.
