Important to study increasing trend of Cloud Bursts in Himachal says CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

The Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, honored the officers and departments who did a commendable job during the disasters and played an important role in relief and rescue operations. He lauded the efforts of HPSDMA for organizing an Annual Mass Awareness Campaign on Disaster Risk Reduction, Samarth, 2023, to create awareness online through digital modes, build capacities towards promoting disaster resilience in the State.

The Chief Minister also spoke on the changing weather pattern and said that it has been noticed that the incidents of cloud bursts have increased in the past few years. He emphasized the need to study and research the varying climatic patterns and take adaptive measures in advance to mitigate the impact of such incidents.

The Chief Minister also gave his suggestion on the safe construction practices in Himachal Pradesh and launched IEC material prepared by HPSDMA, HIMCOSTE and by Central Building Research Institute, (CBRI) Rourkee. A MoU was also signed between CBRI, Rourkee and HIMCOSTE on earthquake-resistant construction activities.

The Chief Minister also launched the School Safety Mobile App on this occasion which will be quite useful for the schools to make disaster management plans and organize mock drills accordingly. Sh. Sukhu also rewarded the winners of painting, slogan writing and quiz competitions on disaster management organised by HPSDMA across the State.

In addition to the above, the Chief Minister also said that the state is already reeling under the debt of Rs. 75000 crore, but the government is making earnest efforts to bring the State back on track and is adopting innovative measures to raise its finances so as to provide relief to the disaster affected. He also said that despite the states share, nothing has been received from the centre in name of financial assistance.

The Chief Minister’s speech highlights the importance of disaster risk reduction and preparedness in Himachal Pradesh, given the state’s vulnerability to a variety of natural disasters. He also emphasized the need to invest in safe construction practices and to educate the public about disaster management.

The School Safety Mobile App is a welcome initiative, as it will help schools to develop disaster management plans and to conduct mock drills. This will help to ensure that students and staff are prepared in the event of a disaster.

The Chief Minister’s speech is a reminder that disaster risk reduction is everyone’s responsibility. The government, the private sector, and the public all have a role to play in making communities more resilient to disasters.