Himachal Pradesh News
Heavy monsoon rains and flash floods cause huge losses to Jal Shakti Department: Loss of Rs 196 crore
2,421 water schemes affected due to monsoon; Deputy Chief Minister cancels leave of employees, instructs employees to remain alert during monsoon.
Shimla, 02 August: Heavy monsoon rains and flash floods on Wednesday night have caused massive damage to the state’s water supply infrastructure, leading to an additional loss of about Rs 44 crore to the Jal Shakti Department. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, in a review meeting with department officials today, revealed that the total loss in the current monsoon season is Rs 196 crore, affecting 2,421 water supply schemes.
Agnihotri revealed that water supply schemes in Kullu and Shimla districts have been particularly badly affected. The Kurpan scheme in Matiyana area of Shimla has suffered heavy damage, with pump houses, machinery and pipes washed away, leading to losses of about Rs 10 crore. Similarly, the Rampur water supply scheme has suffered losses of about Rs 8 crore.
Some schemes are being temporarily closed to minimise the losses and ensure water supply to the people. The department is working with full diligence to ensure that water supply is not affected due to siltation. “Efforts are on to ensure uninterrupted water supply to people,” Agnihotri said.
During the current monsoon season, 2,421 drinking water supply, irrigation and sewerage schemes were affected, of which 1,438 have been temporarily restored. Restoration efforts for the remaining schemes are on at a fast pace.
In view of the bad weather conditions, all leaves of officers and employees have been cancelled till further notice. Agnihotri has directed all department personnel to remain alert and responsive during monsoon rains.
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