CM Sukhu Directs Swift Restoration of Essential Services in Snowbound Areas of Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu yesterday issued comprehensive directions to officers and officials of the State Government to ensure the speedy restoration of normalcy in various parts of Himachal Pradesh affected by heavy snowfall. Stressing the urgency of the situation, he asked all departments to work on a war footing to restore essential services disrupted due to adverse weather conditions.
The Chief Minister specifically directed that roads leading to hospitals, health centres, and other emergency service institutions be cleared on a priority basis to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare. To minimize inconvenience to the public, he instructed the deployment of adequate manpower and heavy machinery for the swift reopening of blocked road networks across snowbound areas.
Emphasizing the importance of basic amenities, CM Sukhu called for the immediate restoration of power and water supply schemes in the affected regions. He asked all district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure timely assistance to people in distress.
To prevent shortages, the Chief Minister directed the Department of Food and Civil Supplies and the Himachal Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation to take proactive steps to ensure an uninterrupted supply of foodgrains and other essential commodities in snowbound and remote areas. He also instructed all departments to strictly follow the safety guidelines issued by the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority to safeguard lives and property.
On a positive note, the Chief Minister observed that the rain and snowfall have provided much-needed relief to farmers and orchardists, which is expected to give a boost to the rural economy. He also welcomed tourists to the State, stating that the fresh snowfall would likely enhance tourism-related activities and benefit local livelihoods.
Addressing long-term environmental concerns, CM Sukhu highlighted the growing impact of climate change on the State’s fragile ecology. He said the State Government has directed officials to undertake in-depth studies on climate change, with the objective of incorporating necessary environmental conservation measures into future policies and development programmes to ensure sustainable growth in Himachal Pradesh.
