Himachal Pradesh: President Murmu expresses grief at deaths of people in rain-related mishaps

New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief at the deaths of several people in rain-related mishaps in Himachal Pradesh.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of many people in unfortunate accidents due to excessive rains in Himachal Pradesh. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” read a rough translation of her message in Hindi on X, formerly Twitter.

Nine people have been killed and several others are feared trapped under the debris of a temple, which collapsed in Shimla after being hit by a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall on Monday.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu supervised the rescue operation and expressed his government’s ‘unwavering’ dedication to secure the well-being of those entrapped.

“Supervising the ongoing rescue operations following the tragic landslide near Shiv Temple in Summerhill, Shimla. Emphasizing the highest priority on life-saving efforts, the government remains unwaveringly dedicated to securing the well-being of those entrapped. My sincerest prayers are extended for the safety and recovery of all individuals impacted by this catastrophic occurrence triggered by intense rainfall,” the Chief Minister posted on X.

Earlier, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed his condolences over the deaths and said efforts are underway to rescue the people trapped under the debris of the collapsed temple in the Summer Hill area.

“As of now, nine bodies have been retrieved. The local administration is diligently working to clear the debris in order to rescue individuals who may still be trapped,” the Himachal Pradesh chief minister said in a post on X.

Chief Minister Sukhu along with state minister Vikramaditya Singh also visited the site of the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

“Twenty to 25 people are trapped under debris here. A total of 21 people have died in the last 24 hours in the state. I appeal to people to stay indoors, to not venture near rivers and landslide-prone areas. Restoration work will begin as soon as rain stops,” the chief minister said.