Shimla, Himachal Pradesh | July 29, 2025: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today confirmed that torrential rains unleashed “cloudburst-like” devastation in Mandi district last night, particularly in the Jail Road area, where two deaths have been reported and several individuals remain missing, buried under debris. Addressing reporters in Shimla, CM Sukhu assured that immediate rescue and relief operations are in full swing.
“Heavy rain lashed Mandi last night, causing severe damage to the Jail Road area. Two deaths have been reported. Given the scale of the disaster, I can say it resembles a cloudburst-like situation,” stated Chief Minister Sukhu, highlighting the severity of the natural calamity.
He emphasized the swift mobilization of multiple agencies to tackle the crisis. “We are closely monitoring the situation. The Deputy Commissioner, NDRF (National Disaster Response Force), and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) teams have been directed to take immediate action. Rescue operations to evacuate those trapped in Mandi have been initiated since morning,” he added, underscoring the government’s rapid response.
CM Sukhu affirmed that disaster response is the government’s top priority, noting that a detailed review was conducted during a cabinet meeting yesterday. He announced that two major committees would be formed to address the ongoing situation and future preparedness.
In a significant policy shift aimed at mitigating future disasters, Chief Minister Sukhu announced revised construction norms, particularly for areas near rivers. Expressing strong disapproval of the common practice of constructing government buildings close to riverbanks, he stated, “We have observed that several government institutions are constructed along riverbanks, and crores of rupees are spent on site development. Now it has been decided that no government building will be constructed within 100 to 150 meters of rivers.” He further added, “Where the soil is soft, a structural study will be conducted, and a dedicated committee will be formed for this.” A separate committee will also examine the settlements of people who have been living near rivers for generations, indicating a comprehensive approach to risk assessment.
The Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to life-saving efforts. “Our priority is to save lives. Those who are trapped or buried under debris must be rescued first. In such matters, our government never holds back,” he affirmed. He acknowledged the extensive damage caused to state infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water supply systems, stating, “The heavy rains last night have caused significant damage to government property, electricity and water schemes, and PWD roads. We are keeping a close watch on the overall situation.”
In other significant news, CM Sukhu welcomed the Supreme Court’s stay order on the felling of apple trees in rural areas of Shimla’s green belts, following a petition by environmentalist Tikender Panwar. “The stay granted by the Supreme Court is a very good decision. We had also filed a petition in the High Court urging that fruit-bearing trees should not be cut, especially during the apple season. Our Advocate General Deepender Kumar also made the same request before the court,” he asserted. The government has proposed compensating individuals for trees grown on private lands, while emphasizing that trees in forest areas should not be cut at all.
CM Sukhu concluded by stressing that the Supreme Court upheld the state’s stance on protecting Shimla’s green belt from unregulated construction. “If we are to save Himachal and the mountains, then construction in green belts is not acceptable. The Supreme Court has upheld our argument in this matter,” he said, reaffirming his government’s commitment to environmental protection and citizen safety amidst increasing climatic disruptions.