Solan: In a swift response to the recent devastating landslide near Chakki Mor in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh Governor, Shiv Pratap Shukla, visited the site to assess the damage and provide immediate directives for action. The incident, which occurred along National Highway 05, prompted the Governor to issue crucial instructions to both the district administration and the National Highways Authority of India, ensuring that the necessary steps are taken to address the situation.
Governor Shukla underscored the importance of restoring the traffic flow on National Highway 05. He emphasized that this highway serves as a lifeline for essential supplies and tourists in the state. The Governor’s immediate concern was the smooth transportation of apples to markets outside the state. With the ongoing apple season, he stressed the need for an uninterrupted supply chain and urged authorities to maintain the highway’s functionality while exploring alternative arrangements if required.
National Highway 05’s role in facilitating the movement of crucial supplies and supporting the state’s tourism industry cannot be understated. Governor Shukla acknowledged this significance and called for collaborative efforts between the District Administration and the National Highway Authority to ensure its upkeep.
The Governor lamented the extensive damage caused by the natural calamities, including landslides and cloudbursts, that have wreaked havoc across Himachal Pradesh. These incidents have not only disrupted systems but also impacted lives. In response, Governor Shukla has taken it upon himself to personally visit affected areas and assess the extent of the damage.
Solan district’s Deputy Commissioner, Manmohan Sharma, estimated the monetary loss incurred due to heavy rains to be around Rs 526 crore. The district administration, in alignment with the state government’s directives, is providing assistance to the affected individuals. Additionally, measures are being implemented to ensure the affected population’s well-being and livelihoods are safeguarded.
A.K. Dahiya, the Project Director of the National Highways Authority, highlighted the extent of the damage inflicted on National Highway 05 by the heavy rains. He projected that it would take approximately 30 to 45 days to fully reinstate the highway near Chakki Mor. Dahiya shared insights into the authority’s strategy to prevent future damage and maintain the highway’s operational efficiency.
Present during the occasion were Superintendent of Police Solan, Gaurav Singh, along with senior officers from both the District Administration and the National Highway Authority.
