Sukhu announces aid for families hit by devastating fire at Kullu village

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today announced the setting up of a new fire station in Banjar during his visit to the disaster-stricken Tandi village in Jibhi valley of Banjar subdivision.

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On the first day of the New Year, a devastating fire destroyed 17 houses and six cowsheds, rendering 33 families homeless. Nearly half of the village was reduced to ashes and residents were unable to save their belongings as the fire spread rapidly through the wooden houses, which contained stocks of firewood and fodder.

The Chief Minister reviewed the relief efforts for those affected by the blaze, emphasising that the government had mobilised all available resources to assist the victims. He said, “Our first priority is to provide shelter to the affected families until their homes are rebuilt. An allowance of Rs 5,000 per month will be provided to the families who offer temporary shelter to the victims for an initial period of six months, with the possibility of extension if necessary, as it is particularly challenging to rebuild homes in rural areas.”

The Chief Minister also announced financial aid of Rs 7 lakh to rebuild completely destroyed homes and those deemed uninhabitable, while Rs 50,000 will be allocated for the reconstruction of cowsheds. He instructed Kullu Deputy Commissioner to supply wood for construction of houses from the forest depot or from dried or felled trees in accordance with the TD regulations. Additionally, he announced that the new homes of the disaster victims will be provided free electricity and water connections.

The leader declared Rs 1 crore allocation for the upgrade of the 8 km road connecting Jibhi to the village, along with an initial Rs 75 lakh for the construction of an alternate two-km links road. To address the issue of low voltage electricity, he announced that a 100 kW transformer will be installed in the village. He also announced plans to promote the area for eco-tourism and explore the possibility of establishing a 500 kW eco-friendly solar power project. Furthermore, funds will be provided for the renovation of the local deity’s temple.

Property worth over Rs 10 crore, including ornaments and jewellery in the ‘kothi’ (store) of deity Gadpati Sheshnag were reduced to ashes in the massive inferno on January 1. Generous donations, including individual contributions of up to Rs 50,000, have been made by philanthropists. Local associations have also raised and donated funds for the affected families, while various relief materials, including jackets and food rations, are being distributed to those in need.