Unusual heavy rain in Lahaul-Spiti cause for concern: Sukhu

Climate change is posing serious challenges and Lahaul and Spiti district is no exception. Unusual heavy rainfall in the district is a cause for concern, said Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu after virtually inaugurating a festival at Keylong from the capital city today.

Sukhu said that the state government was taking all possible measures to provide relief after disasters and was working with the Central Government to ensure environmental protection as well. A team of scientists, with the Central Government’s support, was conducting a detailed study of cloudbursts, he added. The festival, which would conclude on August 16, is being organised in the state for the first time on the theme of “Zero Waste”.

He said that the event would promote environmental conservation and showcase the unique art and culture of the district. “It will provide tourists with an opportunity to know the region better. The festival symbolises commitment to preserving its heritage and will inspire people to celebrate it responsibly,” he added.

Sukhu said that Lahaul and Spiti had emerged as a model district in women empowerment and the traditional products of the region would be promoted under the “Him-Ira” brand.

The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of five bridges in Udaipur subdivision under the PMGSY Phase-III, to be built at a cost of over Rs 36.41 crore. A 35-m steel truss bridge would be built over the Chaikhang Nallah (Rs 9.93 crore), 49-m double-lane steel truss bridge over the Chenab (Rs 9.46 crore), 22-m bridge over the Kishori Nallah (Rs 17.68 crore), 76-m bridge over the Teling Nallah (Rs 13.35 crore) and a 22-m bridge over the Moring Nullah (Rs 1.89 crore).

Local MLA Anuradha Rana apprised the Chief Minister about the festival. She also highlighted the huge losses caused by heavy rain in the district.