Himachal Pradesh Focuses on Disaster Resilience with Rs 2,687 Crore Initiative

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday presided over a pivotal meeting examining the Resilient Action for Development and Disaster Recovery- Himachal Pradesh (READY-HP). Launched with an expenditure of Rs 2,687 crore, the initiative marks a significant stride in bolstering disaster resilience across the state.

Highlighting the growing impact of natural disasters, the Chief Minister noted that from 2023 to 2025, the state suffered 86 cloudbursts, 234 landslides, and 121 flash floods, incurring losses exceeding Rs 12,500 crore. Situated in the fragile Himalayan geological belt, Himachal Pradesh is especially vulnerable to natural disasters, necessitating projects like READY-HP for restoring critical infrastructure such as roads, water, power, and livelihoods.

The project is geared towards enhancing disaster recovery mechanisms and developing resilient public services. Focus areas include fostering livelihood through initiatives such as green panchayats, as well as bolstering risk-informed social safety and insurance strategies. A key goal is to underpin farmers and horticulturists with robust infrastructure to ensure continued resilience amid natural calamities. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)