Swift relief measures rolled out in Lahaul-Spiti after monsoon havoc

In the aftermath of the recent spell of heavy rains, floods and landslides that have disrupted life across Lahaul-Spiti, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kiran Bhadana has directed all departments to accelerate relief and rehabilitation measures for affected families.

The DC stressed the need for immediate assessment of losses to life, property, crops and livestock. She instructed officials to prepare detailed cases in line with government guidelines, upload them on the Relief Management System (RMS) portal and ensure quick disbursal of funds from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Compensation, she underlined, must strictly follow norms prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the State Government.

Residents have been encouraged to apply for assistance through online Lok Mitra Kendras if they have suffered any form of damage. To streamline the process, Panchayat Secretaries have been appointed as nodal officers for online registration, while Patwaris will assist with land and revenue documentation.

Highlighting government support, the DC announced a special relief package for the 2025 monsoon losses. It provides compensation of up to Rs 7 lakh for fully damaged houses, Rs 1 lakh for partially damaged houses, shops or dhabas and Rs 50,000-Rs 70,000 for tenant and owner property losses. Farmers will receive Rs 10,000 per bigha for land loss and Rs 4,000 per bigha for crop damage. Livestock compensation includes Rs 55,000 per large animal and Rs 9,000 per small animal. Additional support covers clothing, utensils and household essentials, with both central and state contributions.

For horticultural losses, families will be compensated at Rs 300 per bigha for 50-75 per cent damage and Rs 500 per bigha for losses exceeding 75 per cent, capped at Rs 7,000 per family. Assistance is also extended to cattle sheds, polygreen houses, rented shops and water mills.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, the DC said, “The state government is fully committed to providing quick, transparent and fair financial assistance to disaster-affected families. All efforts are being made to ensure timely support and restoration of normal life.”

Residents have been urged to promptly report damages and coordinate with Panchayat Secretaries or Lok Mitra Kendras to initiate the relief process.