Himachal governor flags off relief material for disaster-hit areas in Kullu

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 6 (ANI): The Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, on Tuesday flagged off two vehicles carrying relief material for the flood-affected areas of Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh.

The vehicles were sent from Raj Bhawan, containing relief kits with blankets, kitchen sets, hygiene kits, and tarpaulins to be distributed to the affected families through the district Red Cross Societies.

“We are sending the relief material to the flood-hit areas in Kullu district through the state Red Cross Society. The secretary of Raj Bhawan is in contact with the concerned deputy commissioners to ensure the distribution of these materials. Our efforts are continuous, and we will keep aiding during such disasters. I would like to thank the Red Cross and my team for their support. Now, it is crucial that everyone helps each other and remains vigilant,” he said.

Speaking to ANI, Shukla said that he had made a heartfelt appeal to tourists, urging them to avoid visiting Himachal Pradesh during the ongoing orange alert and heavy rains.

“The heavy rains have caused significant damage, and I urge the people of the state to assist one another. Additionally, I strongly advise against visiting riversides and request tourists to refrain from coming to the state during the orange alert period. It would not only be risky for them but also strain the authorities,” Shukla said.

Currently, relief and rescue operations are being carried out in the flood-affected Samej village near Rampur in Shimla following the catastrophic cloudbursts that occurred on August 1.

Additionally, the Indian Meteorological Department has predicted very heavy rainfall across various areas in Himachal Pradesh on August 7.

According to the data from the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), 85 roads, including two National Highways (NH), have been closed in the state due to landslides and excessive rain. A total of 116 electricity supply schemes and 65 water supply schemes have also been disrupted in the state.