Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Promises Financial Aid and Treatment for Disaster-Affected Families

Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has pledged Rs 5 lakh in financial assistance to families affected by recent disasters and arranged treatment for the injured. The measures follow heavy rains that caused significant damage in Chamoli district.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has pledged financial aid and medical support for those affected by recent heavy rains in Chamoli district. Families of the deceased and those with damaged homes will receive Rs 5 lakh. These measures were discussed during a meeting at the State Emergency Operations Centre following the severe weather in Tharali.

During the intense rainfall, debris from the Toonri rain drain spread widely, resulting in one fatality and another person missing. The body of 20-year-old Kavita Bisht was found in Sangwada village, while the search continues for Ganga Dutt Joshi, who disappeared in Chepdon. Six of the nine injured individuals have been airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced treatment.

Relief Efforts and Evacuations

Approximately 150-200 residents have been evacuated from affected areas to safer locations. The disaster impacted several structures, including the Tharali Tehsil office and Sub-Divisional Magistrate's residence. Many homes and shops were filled with debris, with 41 houses damaged, 11 of which are beyond repair.

Various agencies, including the district administration, police, and disaster response teams, are actively engaged in relief efforts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are working tirelessly alongside local authorities to manage the situation effectively.

Government's Commitment to Support

Chief Minister Dhami has assured continuous monitoring of rescue operations. He visited Tharali to assess ongoing efforts and instructed teams to expedite their work. At Kulsari relief camp, he met with affected individuals to ensure their needs are being addressed promptly.

The chief minister emphasised the importance of providing necessary supplies such as food, medicines, and sanitation facilities at relief camps. He praised the district administration's swift response under the leadership of District Magistrate Dr Sandeep Tiwari.

Future Disaster Preparedness

To mitigate future disasters, Dhami called for dredging rivers near settlements to prevent debris accumulation. He requested reports on river water levels affected by inadequate dredging and stressed adherence to disaster management standards during such operations.

A high-level scientific team is being formed to study moraine debris deposited by glaciers in the Himalayas. This team will include experts from institutions like Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and IIT. Dhami plans to seek Central Government support for similar studies across Himalayan states.

The Karnaprayag-Tharali-Dewal road remains blocked due to debris at multiple points over a 10 km stretch. Efforts are underway using JCB machines to clear the route for restoration. Meanwhile, arrangements for accommodation and food are being made for evacuees at safe locations.

With inputs from PTI