Governor distributes relief kits to 600 disaster-hit families in Chamba

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Sunday distributed relief material to more than 600 disaster-affected families of Chamba district at Banikhet near Dalhousie. The relief consignment, sent by the Uttar Pradesh Government, contained a month’s ration and essential household items for each family. The Governor interacted with the disaster-hit families, listened to their concerns and assured them of continued support from both Central and state governments.

The Governor, while speaking with mediapersons, said that Chamba was among the worst-affected districts by heavy rainfall during the monsoon season this year where communication networks and infrastructure were severely damaged. He noted that the state government was actively engaged in relief and rehabilitation and had placed the matter before the Prime Minister.

Shukhla stressed that disaster management must remain above politics and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chief Ministers of various states, particularly Uttar Pradesh, for rushing aid to Himachal.

He recalled that the Prime Minister had already announced Rs 1,500 crore as immediate relief, an unprecedented early response for the state. “This is only the first step,” Shukla said, adding that further assistance would be provided after the Central Government teams, including four Union Ministers deputed to Chamba, complete their on-ground assessment.

The Governor warned that disasters had inflicted wide-ranging economic consequences, especially on tourism and local livelihoods. He urged for coordinated planning between the Central Government, the state and local communities to rebuild infrastructure and restore economic activity. “We need a concrete revival plan so that the affected districts can stand on their feet again,” he added.

Shukla also voiced concern over unsafe construction practices and illegal land use that had worsened the disaster’s impact. He pointed to forest debris and timber carried downstream during floods and said that it was a clear proof of illegal tree felling and strict action must be taken against the culprits.

On rehabilitation, Shukla said that displaced families, who lost homes and land, were being considered for resettlement, while social organisations were complementing government efforts by distributing thousands of relief kits. “Society as a whole has come together in this hour of crisis,” he said, adding that the rehabilitation work was already underway. MLAs Vipin Parmar (Sullah), Hans Raj (Churah) and DS Thakur (Dalhousie) were also present on the occasion.