"It's a big challenge, a mountain-like challenge. But we are not going to back away": Himachal CM

SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, affirmed the state's commitment to overcoming the colossal challenge of rebuilding its shattered infrastructure following the destructive monsoon rains. In a recent media interview, he disclosed that the estimated damage from two severe spells of heavy rainfall, occurring this week and in July, amounts to around Rs 10,000 crore.

Landslides triggered by this week's rains have resulted in road closures and the collapse of homes. The calamity has claimed approximately 60 lives, with concerns lingering over individuals potentially buried under debris. Sukhu acknowledged the time-consuming nature of reconstructing roads and water projects, while underscoring the government's intensified efforts to expedite the restoration process. He declared the imperative goal of fully reinstating the infrastructure within a year, despite the monumental and "mountain-like challenge" at hand.

Sukhu remained resolute in the state's broader objectives, affirming the aim to achieve self-reliance within four years and to position Himachal Pradesh as the nation's most prosperous state within a decade. However, he acknowledged that recovering from the current tragedy would demand a year's worth of focused efforts. The Chief Minister attributed the extensive damage to the unprecedented intensity of the recent rains and the lack of effective structural planning within the state. He highlighted instances where buildings obstructed natural water flow, emphasizing the need for improved structural design.

While he refrained from directly implicating road widening initiatives by the National Highways Authority of India as a significant factor, Sukhu suggested that most landslides were not directly linked to the edges of these expanded roads. He acknowledged the potential influence of climate change, citing the unparalleled rainfall in areas like Lahaul-Spiti.

Sukhu indicated forthcoming changes in building regulations, focusing on drainage systems, soil analysis for construction, and floor load-bearing capacities. He advocated for revised central government norms to allocate greater support to states confronting natural disasters. Criticizing the current provision of Rs 1.5 lakh for every kilometer of damaged road, Sukhu stressed the inadequacy of this assistance.

Underscoring Himachal Pradesh's relative underrepresentation in Parliament, Sukhu appealed for equitable consideration, suggesting that the state serves as the "lungs of northern India." Despite the challenges, he encouraged tourists to continue visiting the region, assuring them of the forthcoming restoration of roads connecting popular destinations like Shimla and Kangra Valley.

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