Shimla, May 17
With just a month remaining to the onset of the monsoon season, the people of Himachal Pradesh stand poised, wary of the looming specter of past devastation. Memories of previous monsoon calamities linger, etched in the collective consciousness of the hill state’s populace. However, amid concerns over the Union government’s perceived lack of sensitivity in providing adequate assistance, the state government, under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu’s leadership, has embarked on a proactive path towards disaster preparedness.
In a recent development, the Himachal Pradesh High Court commended the Sukhu administration for its swift actions in mitigating potential risks posed by the impending monsoon. The focus of the commendation centered on the diligent efforts to clear debris and sedimentation from the embankments of the Beas River, a crucial endeavor aimed at averting the recurrence of devastating floods that had wreaked havoc on vital infrastructure, including the NH-3 highway.
Led by Chief Justice MS Ramachandra Rao and Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua, the High Court lauded the ongoing dredging operations along the Beas River, particularly in the districts of Kullu, Banjar, and Manali. Despite encountering formidable challenges, the Kullu district administration, in collaboration with relevant authorities, demonstrated commendable progress in addressing the aftermath of the disaster that struck Kullu district in July 2023.
The High Court’s appreciation extended to the maintenance efforts along highways, essential lifelines crucial for connectivity and commerce in the region. Acknowledging the completion of highway cleaning initiatives in Kullu and Mandi districts, the court underscored the urgency of expediting dredging operations, especially in Mandi district, where financial constraints have hampered progress.
In a significant directive, the High Court called upon the Deputy Advocate General of the Government of India to ensure the timely release of approved funds amounting to Rs 450.76 lakh from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. These funds are earmarked for the Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department, crucial for the proper maintenance of damaged national highways, a pivotal step towards bolstering the state’s resilience against future calamities.
As the monsoon looms ominously on the horizon, the court’s optimistic outlook hinges on the expeditious completion of dredging initiatives and infrastructure maintenance endeavors. With the clock ticking down, the state government faces the formidable task of balancing restoration efforts with the imperative of safeguarding against impending natural hazards. In the face of adversity, Himachal Pradesh stands united, resolute in its determination to weather the storm and emerge stronger than ever before.
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