Himachal Pradesh

40 vehicles swept away, over 12 houses damaged in Tungal Colony, 32 stranded in homes rescued

The government denotified 100 zero-enrolment schools (72 primary, 28 middle) and merged 120 primary schools with low enrollment. Decisions followed a Directorate of School Education proposal, prioritizing districts like Mandi, Shimla, and Kangra. Further mergers are under consideration, except for those in challenging terrains.

A cloudburst in Mandi town caused flash floods, resulting in three deaths and one critical injury. Chief Minister Sukhu offered condolences, assured aid to affected families, and pledged relief and rehabilitation. Former leaders also visited and expressed sympathy.

Heavy rain has closed 358 roads, including NH-21, and disrupted 182 power transformers and 179 water supply schemes in the state. Mandi district is the worst affected. Orange and yellow alerts for heavy rain are in effect until August 4.

Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Sukhu plans a new apple grower policy. He'll address their concerns with the Union Minister and investigate tree felling reports. The state seeks forestland for disaster victims and support under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

Heavy rainfall caused landslides in Kangra district, disrupting road connectivity. Two deaths were reported, one from a slip into a river and another from a snakebite. National Highway blockages near Kangra caused significant traffic delays. Roads were cleared, but one-way traffic remained in place as a precaution.

Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated a new PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya building in Sandhol, Himachal Pradesh, emphasizing NEP goals and rural education. The modern infrastructure aims to enhance learning. Local MLA Chander Shekhar addressed health and sports development, including increased specialist visits to Sandhol Hospital.

The Cabinet approved hiring 1,386 water guards as pump attendants. It also approved apple procurement at Rs 12/kg, and expanded the Market Intervention Scheme to include other fruits. Disaster preparedness measures, healthcare upgrades, zoo development, and new milk processing facilities were also approved.

HRTC launched four new IT systems, including an online travel pass for students and government employees. The corporation will introduce tourist circuits, a dhaba policy, and the 'Him Bus Plus' scheme offering fare discounts. GPS tracking for buses and bus stand improvements are also planned.

The Supreme Court stayed the Himachal Pradesh High Court's order to remove apple orchards from encroached forest land. The stay came after concerns were raised about the order's impact on apple growers, potential environmental damage, and violation of livelihood rights, with alternative solutions proposed.

Seeking area-specific relief wrong: Revenue Minister

Himachal Pradesh Governor met PM Modi to discuss recent disasters. He detailed damage from cloudbursts and landslides, and the statewide anti-drug campaign. The PM assured assistance for disaster relief and rehabilitation.

A conference in McLeodganj addressed Dharamsala's earthquake vulnerability, emphasizing seismic risks and the need to preserve Tibetan architectural heritage. Experts warned of potential high-magnitude earthquakes and significant fatalities. Studio Nyandak is retrofitting structures and integrating safety into new designs for Tibetan settlements.

The decision is taken by the cabinet, which met under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu

Such large-scale tree-felling significantly heightens the risk of landslides and soil erosion

Several key roads, including the Chandigarh-Manali and Mandi-Pathankot highways, remain blocked

Himachal Pradesh appointed Development Dialogue In-charges (DDIs) in Hamirpur district to improve communication between the ruling party and the public. The DDIs will engage with Congress workers, disseminate information about government programs, and gather feedback for the Chief Minister. Their goal is to strengthen the party's image and connect with grassroots sentiments.

A landslide blocked traffic between Dharamsala and Sakoh Gaggal, caused by unregulated construction and illegal excavation on unstable slopes. Despite warnings, this activity continues, threatening a major geological disaster, damaging fields, and choking water channels. Stricter enforcement and ecological assessments are urgently needed.

Following a natural disaster on June 30, Thunag SDM Ramesh Kumar reported swift progress in relief and restoration efforts in the Seraj region of Mandi district. Infrastructure recovery, including water supply, roads, and power, is underway. Relief distribution and medical aid are also being provided to affected residents.

The BJP demands Himachal Pradesh minister Jagat Singh Negi's dismissal, accusing him of neglecting flood victims. They allege delayed visits, lack of aid, and ordering FIRs against protestors. The BJP criticizes his behavior, threatens statewide protests, and highlights their relief efforts, questioning the Chief Minister's inaction.

Congress workers in Reckong Peo protested against BJP's Jai Ram Thakur, burning his effigy. They were angered by BJP workers' actions against Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi. A Tribal Advisory Council member warned Thakur of severe opposition if he visits tribal areas, blaming him for the protest.

Rotary Club Dharamsala Central and RCC Sakoh planted 100 fruit trees at Jathehar village. The initiative, praised by Governor-Nominee Vijay Sehdev, promotes sustainability and community engagement. This event, the first major activity for RCC Sakoh, also highlights the district's legacy in rural empowerment.

A review meeting for Chamba's aspirational district status, led by the Governor, focused on improving key performance indicators. Discussions included suggestions from the Speaker and MLAs on infrastructure, healthcare, and tourism, aiming to elevate Chamba's development. Officials assured implementation of the directives.

Bhager and surrounding Ghumarwin villages suffer from persistent, low voltage power fluctuations for over three years, damaging appliances. Increased consumption due to the new highway and commercial establishments has worsened the problem. Despite ministerial representation, the issue remains. The government has promised action, including new transformers.

Following severe floods in Mandi district, The Art of Living Foundation and IAHV are providing relief. They are delivering essential supplies, setting up temporary shelters, and offering emotional support through meditation and trauma relief sessions in affected villages. They collaborate with local authorities.