Rohit Thakur calls for climate-resilient infra

Education Minister Rohit Thakur today chaired a review meeting to take stock of the ongoing development works being executed by the Public Works Department (PWD) in the Jubbal-Kotkhai constituency, directing officials to adopt the best available technology for both new road projects and the restoration of those damaged during natural disasters.

“The future infrastructure must be climate-resilient,” Thakur emphasised, urging that all upcoming works be designed to withstand extreme weather events such as the heavy rains and cloudbursts experienced in 2023 and this year. “Even if such conditions recur, roads and infrastructure should remain functional throughout the year,” he said.

The minister revealed that heavy rainfall this year caused damages worth Rs 167 crore to the PWD across 14 divisions in Rohru and two National Highways (NHs). The breakdown included Rs 53 crore in Jubbal division, Rs 50 crore in Kotkhai, Rs 24 crore in Rohru, Rs 35 crore on NH-705 and Rs 5 crore on NH-707.

He noted that the disaster struck at the peak of the apple season, disrupting transport and posing difficulties for fruit growers. “Despite these challenges, the PWD acted promptly and restored road connectivity, providing timely relief to the apple growers, which is commendable,” he said.

Currently, all damaged roads have been restored for light vehicles, while 14 roads remain closed for heavy vehicles. Thakur directed officials to reopen these on a priority basis and explore solutions such as bailey bridges in areas prone to frequent landslides or where construction faces recurring hurdles.

He further instructed the department to issue all Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) tenders by November 15 and to undertake immediate relief measures in areas where houses, land or property remain at risk. “Such vulnerable locations must be identified and secured without delay,” he added.

During the review, the minister also assessed the progress of educational, health and community infrastructure projects, urging early completion. He examined works under NABARD, PMGSY-III, World Bank-funded schemes and other ongoing initiatives linked to the Education Department, stressing coordinated and time-bound execution of all development activities.