Himachal Governor Flags Off Essential Relief for Flood Victims

In a show of solidarity and urgent action, Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla flagged off three trucks loaded with essential relief supplies from Raj Bhavan, destined for the flood-stricken districts of Mandi and Kullu. Coordinated through the State Red Cross Society, the relief efforts aim to assist over 1,200 families affected by the devastating natural calamities.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Shukla underscored the imperative for a behavioral and lifestyle shift in light of frequent natural disasters plaguing the region. "Unless people adapt their way of life, the kind of destruction we see will only continue," Shukla remarked, following his recent consultation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi.

Highlighting ongoing relief operations, Shukla disclosed, "This is not the first dispatch from Raj Bhavan; three previous trucks had been sent from Rajasthan." He elaborated on the contents of the aid packages, which include tents, blankets, tarpaulins, food supplies, and sanitary items, designed to support nearly 400 people per truck.

The Governor announced plans to visit the affected areas personally, starting with Mandi and extending to the Seraj region, to connect with impacted residents. Shukla also aligned with Supreme Court concerns over the state's environmental condition. "The citizens must rethink and adjust their lifestyle if we are to prevent further ecological damage," he warned.

Addressing central support, the Governor assured that assistance from the Union government is forthcoming after evaluations by the Central Team. He also clarified his stance on contentious issues raised by the Chief Minister, asserting that his comments merely supported the need for rehabilitation centers without undermining governmental efforts against drug misuse.

Furthermore, regarding changes in official transportation, Shukla cited regulatory compliance rather than personal need for replacing the Governor's vehicle to align with Delhi's transportation norms. CP Verma, Secretary to the Governor, and other officials were in attendance at the ceremony.

(With inputs from agencies.)