himachal-steps-up-monsoon-prep-as-rains-hit-early

Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh informed that the state government has increased its readiness for the southwest monsoon, which made an early entry five days in advance, by conducting coordination meetings with departments and positioning machinery in susceptible areas.

 

Telling the nes agency, Singh informed that the government had already started preparations even before the onset of monsoon, conducting joint meetings with the State Disaster Management Authority, India Meteorological Department (IMD), and other concerned departments. 

 

"I have already gone through the preparations, and a detailed review meeting of the PWD will be held soon," he informed.

 

Singh was concerned about the repetitive loss due to heavy rains, particularly in riverine and seasonal stream areas. "We have seen huge losses in these parts over the last two years. It was less so last year but severe the previous year, incurring crores of rupees," he stated. He noted that the department has acted quickly in the past with rescue and restoration of connectivity.

 

To not shut down during bad weather, Singh stated temporary portable bridges were sent to exposed areas around the state. "If a bridge is destroyed by floods, we can put it back instantly. Our priority is to be completely prepared," he said.

 

He also confirmed that emergency equipment and machinery had been distributed across all zones, ensuring readiness to respond quickly to rain-related disasters. “Additional assistance will also be extended to the department as needed,” he added.

 

The minister emphasized the need to work in close coordination with district administrations, especially those which are often affected by monsoon catastrophes.

 

"Our department will remain in close touch with all Deputy Commissioners, especially those in Mandi, Kullu, and the hilly tracts of Shimla which are most vulnerable to landslides and flash floods," Singh stated.

 

The advance planning is in anticipation of the warnings issued by the IMD that this season will see more-than-usual rainfall, raising the possibility of landslides, flash floods, and road blockade in the hill state.