Shimla, July 15: Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited the historic Jakhu Temple in Shimla on Friday, where he offered prayers and wished for the well-being and prosperity of the people of Himachal Pradesh. He also participated in the ceremony to install a 108-foot-tall Hanuman flag in the temple premises and sought the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
Speaking to the media, the Chief Minister said that Jakhu Temple is a significant center of faith for the people of the state. The tallest statue of Lord Hanuman is already installed here, and the government is working to further develop the area from both religious and tourism perspectives. He mentioned that a statue of Lord Shri Ram is also proposed for the temple complex, and the necessary formalities under the Forest Conservation Act are being completed. Efforts are also underway to improve basic infrastructure, including parking and seating arrangements, for the convenience of devotees.
The Chief Minister added that the state government is working on a war footing to deal with the recent natural calamity. Heavy damage has been reported in regions like Dharampur, Nachan, Karsog, and the Leader of Opposition’s constituency. During his visit to Delhi, he briefed Union ministers on the extent of the losses and requested assistance. He expressed hope that the Union Home Minister’s visit to Himachal will lead to positive support.
Sukhu emphasized that the rehabilitation of affected families remains the government’s top priority. People whose homes have been damaged will be resettled on non-forest land. Those whose houses were completely destroyed are being provided shelter in relief camps, and tenants will receive monthly assistance of ₹5,000.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed PWD rest house in Chhota Shimla, built at a cost of ₹4.15 crore. He said all rest houses will soon be integrated with an online booking system. He also urged tourists to visit Himachal, reassuring them that most parts of the state are completely safe.
