Jairam Thakur Urges Swift Relief for Rain-Affected Bali Chowki Residents

Visit to Affected Area

Munish Sood
MANDI

On Saturday, Jairam Thakur, the former Chief Minister and current Leader of Opposition, visited Bali Chowki in Mandi district, which has been severely impacted by the recent heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh. The area experienced sudden cloudbursts and landslides that resulted in significant destruction, displacing numerous families and demolishing homes.

Support for Displaced Families

During his visit, Thakur interacted with the residents affected by the disaster, distributing essential relief supplies and offering financial aid to those who lost their homes, businesses, and livestock. He emphasized the ongoing nature of the crisis, stating, “The relentless cycle of cloudbursts and landslides continues to devastate our state. Many are losing their homes, farmland, and livelihoods. Immediate assistance is vital during such challenging times.”

Safety Precautions and Administrative Alert

Appeal to Residents and Authorities

Thakur urged the local population to exercise caution and adhere to weather warnings issued by authorities. He advised against unnecessary travel and urged residents to steer clear of rivers and other hazardous areas until conditions improve. Additionally, he called on the administration to maintain heightened vigilance in light of the deteriorating weather.

Urgency of Relief Efforts

“Delay in Relief Loses Meaning”

Thakur highlighted the plight of thousands displaced by the rains, noting that many families are now seeking shelter with relatives or in temporary accommodations. He stressed the urgency of timely relief, stating, “If assistance is delayed, it loses its significance, especially for those without shelter.” He urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to accelerate the relief process, assuring affected families that he would advocate for their needs in the Assembly.

Distribution of Relief Supplies

Relief Distributed in Bali Chowki

During his visit, Thakur personally handed out over 150 blankets, mattresses, tarpaulins, ration kits, and cooking utensils to families impacted by the disaster. Furthermore, 48 families who lost their homes, shops, or animal shelters received direct financial support.

He expressed his gratitude to the donors, stating, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to this relief effort. Their generosity has provided immediate comfort to those in distress.”

Need for Long-Term Disaster Preparedness

Call for Long-Term Preparedness

Thakur remarked that the devastation in Bali Chowki serves as a crucial reminder of the need for enhanced disaster preparedness in Himachal Pradesh. He called for a thorough analysis of the causes of such disasters and the development of new policies aimed at reducing risks and safeguarding lives and property in the future.

As the state grapples with the ongoing effects of extreme weather, families in Bali Chowki remain in urgent need of shelter and support.