Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, September 18
At least 417 people have died and 45 remain missing in Himachal Pradesh during this year’s monsoon season, with the state government estimating total losses at ₹4,582 crore. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired a high-level review meeting on Wednesday following heavy rainfall in the past 48 hours that killed five people and left two missing. Three victims were reported from Nihari in Mandi district and two from Pandoh in Sadar sub-division. Sukhu said September alone recorded 136% above-normal rainfall, while overall the state has received 45% more rain this monsoon. Alongside the fatalities, 15,022 structural damages have been reported – including 1,502 houses fully destroyed, 6,467 partially damaged homes, 6,316 cowsheds and 594 shops. The Chief Minister directed officials to immediately move affected families to safer locations and ensure relief and rehabilitation. Deputy commissioners were asked to remain on high alert and personally oversee recovery efforts.
Sukhu ordered the Public Works Department to restore road connectivity, especially in apple-growing areas, to prevent losses to farmers. He also instructed the quick restoration of power, water supply and essential services. The Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation (HPMC) was told to provide additional vehicles for apple transportation.
The Chief Minister said public safety was the government’s “top priority”. Families rendered homeless will receive rental support under the special relief package – ₹10,000 per month in urban areas and ₹5,000 in rural areas. He added that the criteria for assistance may be relaxed to benefit more families. Residents of unsafe structures are to be relocated without delay.
Education Minister Rohit Thakur, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLA Hardeep Singh Bawa, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena and other senior officials attended the meeting. District officials and police officers joined virtually.
