Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 10: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed departments to expedite the restoration of roads and the resumption of water and electricity supply in flood-affected regions, following the devastation caused by torrential rains and cloudbursts.
During a review meeting with Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur at the Thunag Rest House on Wednesday evening, the Chief Minister assessed the damage and progress of relief operations in the Seraj region, one of the worst-hit areas.
Sukhu announced plans to visit Delhi soon to meet Union Ministers and demand a special relief package for the state. He instructed departments to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) within a week for damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and utility services.
Highlighting a key project, he said the 56-km Chail Chowk-Janjheli road will be proposed for strengthening under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF).
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of inter-departmental coordination, asking officials to work closely with the Opposition and prioritize essential restoration schemes. He revealed that 60% of drinking water schemes have already been temporarily restored.
The Public Works Department (PWD) was directed to construct Bailey and suspension bridges where necessary, with government funding support assured.
The leaders discussed the urgent resettlement of families displaced by the floods and landslides. Jai Ram Thakur emphasized that with winter approaching, swift action is needed to provide shelter to those who have lost their homes and land.
CM Sukhu directed the Deputy Commissioner of Mandi to identify safe resettlement locations where prefabricated structures can be installed for temporary housing. He also instructed officials to evaluate damage suffered by horticulturists, a key concern in the agricultural region.
The meeting was also attended by former minister Prakash Chaudhary, Congress leaders Chet Ram, Jagdish Reddy, Vijay Pal Singh, APMC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria, Jeevan Thakur, and Naresh Chauhan.