Property worth 4,000cr damaged

Shimla: Heavy rainfall has so far claimed 17 lives in Himachal Pradesh besides causing extensive damage to the roads, power transformers, electric sub-stations and numerous water supply schemes.As per initial estimates, the state has so far incurred a loss of around Rs 4,000 crore to the public and private property.To take stock of the situation, chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday virtually presided over a review meeting of the state disaster management authority from Nadaun in Hamirpur district. He also gave necessary directions to the authorities concerned.Sukhu said nature’s fury had claimed 17 lives so far. Initial estimates suggest a loss of around Rs 4,000 crore, the CM said, adding that a committee headed by revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi would soon convene a meeting to accurately evaluate the damages.He also directed all the deputy commissioners to remain vigilant for the next 10 days and provide all possible assistance to the affected persons.Expressing sorrow over the loss of lives and property due to landslides and flash floods, the CM said his government was making all-out efforts to tackle the situation efficiently. He said prompt rescue operations were launched in the affected areas and many precious lives had been saved.He asked the district authorities to involve representatives from Panchayati Raj Institutions and local residents to undertake relief and rescue operations and ordered for immediate restoration of electricity and water supply in the affected areas so that the people do not face inconvenience.He also directed for construction of Bailey bridges to replace the damaged ones, in order to facilitate the stranded people.Sukhu said efforts were underway to evacuate around 300 stranded tourists and residents in Lahaul-Spiti and Kullu districts by using helicopters once the weather permits. Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra has also been halted for the rest of the season after six deaths were reported during the pilgrimage.Meanwhile, Sukhu directed the officials to make adequate arrangements for accommodation, food, and essential items for the stranded people besides preparing a state-wise list of stranded tourists.The CM also assured that the state government would ensure sufficient funds for assisting the affected people. Sukhu said he would soon visit the affected areas to have an on the spot assessment.