Has Himachal Pradesh Been Declared Disaster-Hit with Deaths Surpassing 300?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, Himachal Pradesh has been declared a disaster-stricken state amid devastating monsoon rains, with damages exceeding Rs 3,056 crore and a rising death toll. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu attributes these calamities to climate change and urges national support for recovery efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Himachal Pradesh has been declared disaster-affected.
- Over 300 deaths reported.
- Damages exceed Rs 3,056 crore.
- Significant infrastructure damage with 793 roads blocked.
- Chief Minister attributes disaster to climate change.
Shimla, Sep 1 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, announced during the legislative Assembly session that the state has been officially declared a disaster-affected region. The damages caused by monsoon rains have exceeded Rs 3,056 crore, with the death toll surpassing 300.
In light of the circumstances, the Disaster Management Act has been enacted, marking the entire state as a disaster-affected area starting from Monday.
Addressing the Assembly, the Chief Minister attributed the widespread devastation to climate change.
A formal notification has also been issued detailing the extensive destruction caused by cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides, which have severely disrupted roads, bridges, power lines, and water supply systems.
“During the Manimahesh Yatra, sixteen pilgrims lost their lives, and the bodies of four remain trapped in Kugti village in Bharmour, as relentless heavy rains hinder recovery efforts,” CM Sukhu shared.
“The district administration in Chamba has mobilized 20 porters to recover the bodies, but the rain persists,” he informed the Assembly.
Later, speaking with the media, Chief Minister Sukhu expressed, “I have urged our MPs to request a special relief package for our state from the government of India. The BJP should refrain from politicizing this… Currently, Himachal Pradesh is facing the repercussions of climate change. I advise visitors to avoid approaching rivers and rivulets… We will assess the extent of losses once the rains cease.”
The State Disaster Management Authority reported that the death toll has risen to 320, with total damages estimated to exceed Rs 3,050 crore.
Since June 20, the state has experienced over 300 landslides, leaving a path of destruction.
Infrastructure has suffered significantly, with 793 roads, including five National Highways, blocked due to debris, flooding, and landslides as of Monday.
In particular, Shimla district has been severely affected over the past 24 hours, with three individuals, including a man and his daughter, buried in landslides.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the dire circumstances faced by Himachal Pradesh due to climate-related disasters. The government's immediate response and the call for national aid emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the consequences of climate change, ensuring support for affected communities.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current death toll in Himachal Pradesh due to the disaster?
The death toll has reached 320 as a result of the recent monsoon-related disasters.
What are the estimated damages from the monsoon rains?
The damages are estimated to exceed Rs 3,056 crore.
What measures have been taken by the state government?
The state government has invoked the Disaster Management Act and declared the entire state as disaster-affected.
What is the cause of the widespread destruction?
Chief Minister Sukhu has attributed the calamities to climate change.
How many landslides have occurred since June 20?
Himachal Pradesh has recorded over 300 landslides since June 20.
