Humanity Stood Tall When Govt Struggled: Ex-CM Jairam Thakur

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Opposition Leader Reviews Relief Efforts in Himachal Pradesh, Praises Public Support

By TRH State Desk

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh | July 17, 2025 — Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition in Himachal Pradesh, Jairam Thakur, has called on the state government to expedite restoration of essential infrastructure and undertake relief and compensation work on a war footing following the devastating floods that ravaged large parts of the hill state in recent weeks.

Reviewing the ongoing disaster relief and rehabilitation efforts, Thakur expressed serious concern that over two weeks after the calamity, many areas remained cut off, with power, water, and road connectivity yet to be restored. “Large populations still lack access to essential services, and this delay is compounding their distress,” said the senior BJP leader, urging responsible officers to speed up the pace of restoration.

Thakur warned that damaged roads are obstructing repair work on electricity and water supply systems, leaving residents, including the sick and elderly, vulnerable and unable to access medical facilities. “It’s not just about mobility, it’s about survival,” he remarked.

Call for Compensation for Crop Losses

Highlighting the widespread destruction of crops, Thakur said the disaster had dealt a double blow to many families whose homes might have survived, but whose livelihoods had been wiped out. “Farming is not just subsistence in this region; it is a full-fledged livelihood. The government must bring out an effective compensation policy to support affected farmers and orchardists,” he said.

The Opposition leader called for immediate surveys and direct benefit transfer mechanisms to help farmers who have invested heavily in crop production, particularly in horticulture and vegetable farming, which are mainstays of the local economy in Mandi and nearby districts.

Civic Response Outshines State Machinery

Thakur also praised the overwhelming response of the public and civil society, stating that in terms of distribution of relief materials, individuals, NGOs, and charitable donors had outperformed the government. “Humanity stood tall when the state struggled. The compassion of our people helped reduce the sting of this disaster. I sincerely thank all those who stepped in without expectations or bias,” he said.

Himachal Pradesh Floods 2025

In late June and early July 2025, Himachal Pradesh witnessed catastrophic floods and landslides triggered by extremely heavy monsoon rainfall, with districts like Mandi, Kullu, Shimla, Chamba, and Kangra among the worst affected. Overflowing rivers, damaged bridges, and landslides led to over 70 deaths, massive crop losses, destruction of homes, and widespread disruption of road and telecom connectivity.

NDRF, SDRF, Army, and ITBP teams have been deployed across multiple districts for rescue and evacuation, while state authorities are conducting damage assessments. However, logistical challenges due to terrain and ongoing rainfall continue to hinder the pace of relief delivery.

The Centre has released interim relief funds, while the state government has sought more assistance under the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF). Thousands remain in temporary shelters, while damage to infrastructure—including over 1,200 roads and 200 power substations—remains to be fully addressed.

As per official estimates, the economic loss due to the floods is expected to cross ₹5,000 crore, making it one of the worst monsoon disasters in Himachal’s recent history.

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