Himachal Pradesh: Over 22,000 Disaster-Affected Families Receive Aid Under Rs 4500 Crore Relief Package

Himachal Pradesh: Over 22,000 Disaster-Affected Families Receive Aid Under Rs 4500 Crore Relief Package

During the 2023 monsoon season, Himachal Pradesh faced unprecedented rainfall leading to flash floods and landslides. Despite the challenges, the state’s people displayed remarkable resilience and began rebuilding their lives. The state government, committed to supporting the affected families, announced a special relief package of Rs. 4500 crore, demonstrating its dedication even with limited central government assistance.

Chief Minister Announces Increased Financial Support:

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted the significant increase in financial aid for various categories under the relief package. This unprecedented move marks a bold step in Himachal’s history, aiming to improve the lives of those affected by the disaster.

Enhanced Relief Measures:

• Housing: The financial assistance for completely damaged houses has been raised from Rs. 1.30 lakh to Rs. 7 lakh, offering substantial support for reconstruction. Additionally, aid for partially damaged kutcha houses has increased from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 1 lakh.
• Livelihood Support: To help restore livelihoods, the government has increased compensation for shop and dhaba losses from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, and for cow sheds, from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 50,000.
• Temporary Accommodation: Recognizing the need for immediate shelter, the state provides Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 10,000 per month for renting accommodation in rural and urban areas respectively.
• Essential Supplies: Disaster-affected families receive free ration, LPG gas connections, electricity and water connections, along with cement bags at government rates.

Over 22,000 Families Benefit from Relief Package:

As of today, over 22,000 families have received financial aid under the relief package. This includes:

• 2,968 families receiving the first installment of Rs. 3 lakh for completely damaged houses, with the remaining Rs. 4 lakh to be provided soon.
• Over 10,000 families receiving assistance for repairs to partially damaged houses.
• 3,648 beneficiaries receiving aid for repairing damaged gaushalas (cow sheds).
• Around 1,800 families receiving compensation for livestock loss.
• 2,600 farmers receiving support for crop loss and damaged cultivable land.
• Owners of 507 damaged shops and dhabas receiving compensation to help restore their businesses.

Comprehensive Support for Disaster Recovery:

The Himachal Pradesh government’s relief package goes beyond financial aid, offering essential supplies and temporary accommodation to ensure the well-being of affected families. This comprehensive approach aims to alleviate hardships and facilitate a smooth recovery process.

Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to its people is evident in this robust relief package. By providing substantial financial support and essential supplies, the state government empowers disaster-affected families to rebuild their lives.

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