No lessons learnt from 2023 devastation, government was unprepared this year: Jai Ram

Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur visited the disaster-hit Inner Akhara Bazaar of Kullu town today and offered condolences to the families affected by the recent rain calamity. Thakur, while speaking with mediapersons, criticised the Congress-led state government for the lack of preparedness and its alleged failure to learn from the devastating events of 2023. He said, “Had the government taken effective measures in vulnerable locations identified after the previous rain disaster, the impact of the tragedy this year could have been significantly mitigated.”

The former Chief Minister highlighted the growing scale of destruction caused by the ongoing monsoon rain in Himachal Pradesh and said that Kullu, Chamba and Mandi districts had lost several lives and property. “Though the monsoon season is drawing to a close, it has left behind deep and lasting scars on Kullu,” he added.

Thakur criticised the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government for its alleged political narratives over the relief and rehabilitation efforts. “In this hour of crisis, the government should be focused on providing aid. Unfortunately, the Chief Minister seems more preoccupied with social media narratives and blaming the Central Government than fulfilling his responsibilities to people,” he added.

He called for greater transparency regarding the utilisation of the financial assistance provided by the Union Government. “Disaster management is primarily the responsibility of the state. So, why blame the Centre? The Union Government has consistently responded swiftly. During the Manimahesh Yatra, Indian Air Force helicopters were deployed to rescue stranded pilgrims. Moreover, over Rs 5,000 crore was allocated to Himachal as financial aid earlier,” he added.

He asked whether the state government had effectively utilised the funds received for disaster relief and rehabilitation in 2023. “Along with the BJP national president, MPs and other leaders, I have repeatedly urged Central ministers to extend the maximum financial aid to the state. The real issue is whether those funds have been put to proper use,” he added.