Himachal Pradesh continues restoration and search operations amid flood devastation
Aug 05, 2024
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 5 : The Public Works Department (PWD) of Himachal Pradesh remains sincere in its efforts to restore normalcy and conduct search operations in the flood-affected regions of the state.
Addressing the media in Shimla, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh assured the public that the state is fully prepared to handle any emergency situations, especially with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing rain warnings.
"We are trying our best to search and restore the affected areas," said Singh.
"There are nearly 80 roads closed in the state, and there has been a loss of 300 crore rupees to the PWD. In the districts of Kullu and Shimla, search and relief operations are ongoing. Bodies are being recovered, and I have personally visited the sites. In Mandi, 8 bodies have been recovered, and 30 people are still missing. Rescue operations by the SDRF, NDRF, and other central and state agencies are continuing to search for the missing people," he said.
The minister highlighted the urgent need to restore infrastructure, mentioning the deployment of three bailey bridges and a request to the Chief Minister to procure additional bridges worth 20 crore rupees to better prepare for future disasters.
"We are trying to do our best to restore the situation to normal. The Chief Minister has spoken to the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, but so far, we have not received any financial assistance from the Union government. We hope that we will get help soon," Singh said.
Seeking centre's help, Singh said, "I would humbly request the Union government to help the state in this bad situation as the PM takes Himachal as his second home. He should support Himachal with an open heart".
Singh also discussed the need to reconsider development strategies in the state.
He proposed prioritizing two-lane roads over four-lane ones, citing the significant damage caused by landslides and erosion, which resulted in substantial financial losses each year.
"We are on alert, and we are trying our best to restore all roads and other situations," Singh said, reiterating the state's commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by the floods and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
