Himachal Government to Provide ₹5,000 Monthly Rent Support to Disaster-Hit Families
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Shimla, July 4:
In response to the widespread devastation caused by this year’s monsoon in Himachal Pradesh, the state government has announced a significant relief measure for disaster-affected families. As per the decision taken in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu at the Secretariat, families displaced by the disaster will receive ₹5,000 per month as housing rent assistance.
Along with financial support for accommodation, these families will also be provided with essential rations and supplies. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, Deputy Speaker Vinay Kumar, and other senior officials.
The Chief Minister revealed that since June 20, the state has reported 69 deaths and 37 people remain missing due to natural calamities. The estimated damage so far has exceeded ₹700 crore. CM Sukhu also spoke with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured full support from the Centre. A central team is expected to arrive in Himachal today to assess the extent of the damage.
Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of cloudburst incidents, the Chief Minister said a scientific study would be conducted to identify patterns and develop preventive strategies for future disasters. He added that 280 roads are currently closed, electricity is disrupted in 332 locations, and 784 water supply schemes have been affected across the state.
Taking a swipe at Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, CM Sukhu accused him of politicizing the tragedy. He dismissed Thakur’s claim that the Chief Minister ignored his call, calling it “completely false.” Sukhu urged all political leaders to focus on relief efforts rather than political posturing during this critical time.
The Chief Minister also criticized the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for its handling of four-lane road construction in the hills. He said that instead of awarding contracts to large external companies, local contractors should be prioritized, as they have a better understanding of the region’s topography and can minimize environmental damage.
He also made a pointed remark about actress Kangana Ranaut, suggesting she should speak with Jai Ram Thakur and join the relief efforts on the ground.
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