Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The Himachal Pradesh government has submitted the final damage memorandum to the Central Government for losses caused by cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides during the monsoon season. The state has assessed the total damage across various sectors at ₹3,412.80 crore and has also sought additional financial assistance from the Centre.
At a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary K.K. Pant following the conclusion of the four-day visit, discussions were held on the extent of damage in the state and the possible assistance to be provided by the Central Government. The meeting also reviewed the damage figures prepared by various departments and from disaster-affected areas.
Pushpendra Rana, Director-cum-Special Secretary (Revenue and Disaster Management), presented the final memorandum before the Central team. The memorandum contains details of financial losses suffered in several sectors, including roads under the Public Works Department, drinking water schemes under the Jal Shakti Department, power infrastructure, and agricultural land.
The Central team directed the concerned departments to ensure that the final damage memorandum is prepared in accordance with the prescribed norms and guidelines of the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). The departments were also instructed to provide the necessary records and supporting documents for each claim.
The state government highlighted the need for additional assistance in view of the difficult geographical conditions of the Himalayan region. The Chief Secretary stated that the cost of rebuilding infrastructure in hilly areas is considerably higher and that the region faces recurring natural disasters.
The state has also raised the need to revise the existing SDRF and NDRF norms. The government said that the early release of assistance from the Centre is essential for the speedy restoration of critical infrastructure and for providing timely relief to affected people.
Following the completion of the final memorandum and damage assessment process, the matter concerning additional financial assistance will be taken forward at the level of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
