SHIMLA -31^st August, 2025

Chief Minister reviews situation, directs to expedite relief and rescue operations

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today reviewed the situation arising due to incessant rainfall and the damages caused across the state. After arriving at his official residence, Oak Over, around 2 PM today from Chandigarh, he held detailed discussions with the Chief Secretary, who apprised him of the condition in the affected areas and the relief measures being undertaken.

The Chief Minister directed to accelerate relief and rescue operations, stating that ensuring the safety of people remains the topmost priority of the government. He assured that the state government stands firmly with every affected family. He also appealed to the public to strictly follow administrative advisories, remain vigilant and avoid venturing near rivers and streams.

The Chief Minister said that the Meteorological Department has issued a heavy rainfall alert for the next three days and several parts of the State are currently experiencing torrential rains. He urged people to exercise utmost caution and extend cooperation in helping those in distress.

On Saturday, the Chief Minister had conducted an aerial survey of disaster-affected areas in Chamba and Kangra districts. Today, he was scheduled to visit Kullu district, but due to inclement weather conditions, the programme had to be cancelled. Consequently, he returned to Shimla by road from Chandigarh.

======================================

394 drinking water schemes restored in Chamba district: Mukesh Agnihotri

Jal Shakti Vibhag suffers Rs. 100 crore loss

Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri has expressed deep concern over the situation in areas affected by heavy rainfall in the state. He directed the departmental officers to carry out relief and restoration works on a war footing.

Jal Shakti Vibhag has suffered a loss of approximately Rs. 100 crore due to the disaster. Out of a total of 487 water supply schemes in the district, 394 have been partially restored, while restoration work on the remaining schemes is being carried out expeditiously.

Temporary water supply arrangements are being made by tapping local water sources in the Chamba–Bharmour region. According to departmental estimates, it may take another four to five days to fully restore these schemes.

The Deputy Chief Minister appreciated the courage and dedication of the employees engaged in relief and restoration works. He further informed that all 41 employees deployed on duty during the Manimahesh Yatra were safe.

Shri Agnihotri assured that the state government would extend all possible assistance to the affected people and concrete measures were being taken to normalize the water supply.