Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, July 5
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Saturday said the Himachal Pradesh government is fully alert and prepared to deal with any emergency as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur districts on 6 July. This warning comes days after the state was battered by severe floods and landslides, leading to major destruction and displacement in several regions.
To monitor the ground situation, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh have been sent to Seraj, one of the worst-affected areas, the Chief Minister said. He said conditions are gradually improving, with essential supplies reaching remote areas through mules, and food availability is stable.
In a relief move, the state has announced Rs 5,000 per month for those left homeless by the disaster, to assist them with temporary housing. Sukhu added that he will visit the affected areas once weather conditions improve.
Separately, while inaugurating the Rajiv Gandhi Start-Up Scheme’s electric vehicle programme, Sukhu outlined the government’s effort to boost youth employment by deploying e-vehicles in government departments. The initiative offers 50% subsidy on electric vehicles for young entrepreneurs to encourage a green transition and create jobs.
