Himachal rain havoc: Anurag Thakur highlights collaborative efforts amidst devastation

New Delhi, August 16: Anurag Thakur, Union Minister, conveyed that both the Central and Himachal Pradesh Governments are diligently working to extend all possible assistance as cloudbursts and torrential rains relentlessly batter the Himalayan state.

"We are putting forth our utmost efforts in the region. Our communication with the state government remains constant, and we are extending comprehensive support. National Disaster Rescue Force (NDRF) units are deployed, and we've made available the Indian Air Force wherever necessary. The combined efforts of the Central and state governments are dedicated to saving lives. The distressing incidents in the state weigh heavily," Anurag Thakur addressed reporters.

Advocating for collective action, the Union Minister appealed, "In these trying times, I urge everyone to unite and do our utmost."

The state grapples with an ongoing catastrophe as flash floods, precipitated by this year's monsoon season, cause unparalleled devastation to lives and property in Himachal Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in various parts of the state over the next 24 hours.

A "red alert" has been issued by the Met department for the mountainous state, which will subsequently downgrade to an "orange alert."

On Tuesday, a landslide led to the collapse of several houses in the Krishna Nagar region of Himachal Pradesh's Shimla.

Recounting the incident, Bittu Panna, an eyewitness and local councillor, stated, "Noticing cracks in the houses, others gathered. As the cracks widened, we urged residents to evacuate. Suddenly, multiple houses crumbled. About 20-25 houses were evacuated, and nearly 50 individuals were rescued and relocated to safety."

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu revealed on Monday that over 50 people lost their lives within the preceding 24 hours due to landslides and incessant rainfall.

He expressed concern about more than 20 individuals potentially being trapped under debris.

Congress Chief Pratibha Virbhadra Singh appealed to the Central Government for aid, proposing that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should declare Himachal Pradesh a disaster-stricken state and initiate restoration efforts.

Expressing condolences for the severe landslides and cloudbursts, the Congress MP remarked, "The Prime Minister should declare Himachal Pradesh a disaster-affected state and launch restoration operations. My heartfelt condolences to those who lost loved ones. In this time of sorrow, we stand in solidarity with them."

Also Read: Uttarakhand rains: 52 people rescued after bridge collapses in Rudraprayag

- ANI

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