Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, July 17
After convening a high-level meeting at the state secretariat to evaluate the extensive damage inflicted by recent floods and landslides on the state’s educational infrastructure, Himachal Pradesh’s Education Minister, Rohit Thakur, on Thursday disclosed that Mandi district bore the brunt of the disaster, with nearly 210 schools sustaining damage, of which 11 to 12 were razed entirely. Thakur confirmed that a detailed plan for the reconstruction of affected schools was discussed and that he would personally visit flood-impacted zones in Mandi within the next few days. “We are committed to restoring normalcy in education and ensuring that students do not suffer because of these disasters,” he said.
Initial estimates suggest the Education Department in Mandi alone suffered damages amounting to ₹15 crore. While many of the damaged schools have resumed operations—thanks to temporary arrangements—the roadmap for rebuilding and financial allocations was a key focus of the meeting. “Local communities are providing rent-free accommodation to ensure continuity in learning,” said Thakur. “We are also liaising with other departments to conduct classes in their facilities, and we’re open to renting additional space if needed.”
The minister emphasized that future site selection will include the Deputy Director of the Education Department to uphold safety and risk mitigation standards. On a separate note, Thakur addressed rising concerns over harassment cases in educational institutions, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance stance. “Such cases are treated with utmost seriousness, and action is taken swiftly whenever complaints arise,” he added.
