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Himachal Assembly to Urge Centre to Declare Rain Havoc a National Disaster
Shimla, Updated At : 17:39 PM Aug 28, 2025 IST
The Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Tuesday tabled a resolution urging the Centre to declare the widespread devastation caused by incessant monsoon rains across the state as a national disaster.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan moved the resolution under Rule 102, stating that there was no doubt about the scale of destruction. “While I do not believe the Assembly’s proceedings should be suspended, as there are important matters and bills pending, I propose this resolution under Rule 102 to call on the Centre to declare the rain-induced devastation in Himachal a national disaster—one in which the entire House can participate,” he said.
Speaker Kuldeep Pathania noted that the resolution was of significant importance, urgent in nature, and in the state’s interest. He added, “Relaxing the mandatory three-day notice period under Rule 102, I am admitting this resolution for debate.”
Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur said the opposition would fully support the resolution, as the entire state had been badly affected. “We are equally concerned that relief reaches those impacted without delay and that rehabilitation is carried out swiftly and effectively,” he remarked. Highlighting the situation in Lahaul-Spiti, he stressed the immediate need for Air Force helicopters to evacuate patients and residents, since restoring road connectivity could take considerable time.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri informed the House that four helicopters had been requested for Chamba and one more for Lahaul-Spiti. “Depending on weather conditions, evacuations will be carried out whenever possible,” he assured.
Members from both the ruling and opposition benches will now debate the resolution, which seeks to formally appeal to the Centre to designate the ongoing rain disaster in Himachal Pradesh as a national calamity.
