Central team assesses rain damages in Mandi district

An inter-ministerial central team visited Mandi district today to evaluate the damage caused by cloudbursts, floods and landslides during this year’s monsoon season. The initial assessment indicates that the district has incurred losses totalling Rs 213.22 crore.

The eight-member team, led by Mihir Kumar, Joint Secretary in the Union Home Ministry, inspected the severely affected Rajban village in the Chauhar Valley of Drang Assembly constituency in Mandi. During their visit, team members engaged with local families impacted by the disasters to understand their challenges first hand.

In a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, the team discussed the damage with district officials and other relevant departments. Kumar emphasised the importance of optimising available resources in the wake of natural disasters, particularly in hilly regions where such events complicate recovery efforts. He assured that the insights gained from this visit would be included in a comprehensive report for further action.

District Disaster Management Authority Chairman and Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan presented detailed accounts of the damages suffered. Tragically, 10 lives were lost in Rajban due to the cloudburst. Nine bodies were recovered while one person was still missing. Devgan appealed for special exemptions in compensation for the missing individuals, akin to provisions made last year, to facilitate timely relief for the affected families.

The assessment highlighted significant losses across various sectors: the Public Works Department suffered the highest estimated loss at Rs 130.47 crore followed by the Jal Shakti Department at Rs 68.24 crore. The Revenue Department reported losses of Rs 2.93 crore, while the State Electricity Board and the Education Department lost Rs 1.55 crore and Rs 1.67 crore, respectively. Agricultural losses were estimated at Rs 1.02 crore.

Devgan raised concerns regarding infrastructure damage, particularly to sewerage systems, which could lead to waterborne diseases as sewage contaminates water sources. He urged the central team to consider recommendations for including sewerage damages in compensation provisions under the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF).

The estimated loss across public and private properties, including horticulture and rural development initiatives, stands at Rs 213.22 crore.