Shimla: In a move to aid the disaster-affected families of Hamirpur district, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu distributed compensation exceeding Rs. 14 crore under the 'Punrvaas' Scheme today. The funds aim to alleviate the hardships caused by the devastating August monsoons that wreaked havoc, leading to widespread destruction of properties and loss of lives.
Chief Minister Sukhu dispersed the first installment of Rs. 3.66 crore to 122 families with completely damaged houses, providing each with rupees three lakhs.
Additionally, financial assistance of rupees one lakh each was granted for the repair of 555 partially damaged houses, totaling Rs. 5.55 crore. Compensation and aid were also extended to shop owners, dhaba proprietors, and families who lost belongings in the disaster.
In a further commitment to the region, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of the Chief Engineer's HPSEB office in Hamirpur.
He pledged Rs. 20 crore for the undergrounding of electricity cables in Hamirpur city, directing completion within one year. Other announcements included Rs. two crores as the first installment for the construction of the Hamirpur bus stand and the initiation of a hostel for Horticulture University in Neri with an outlay of Rs. three crore.
Despite the state's financial constraints, Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the government's dedication to providing relief, citing a special package of Rs. 4500 crore for those affected by the natural calamity.
He criticized the BJP leaders for their lack of response to declaring the disaster a National Disaster during the recent Assembly session.
The compensation package for damaged properties, including houses, shops, and cow sheds, witnessed significant increases. The state government also raised the compensation for land erosion and crop damage. Despite the debt burden, Chief Minister Sukhu assured continued support for affected families.
Chief Minister expressed disappointment in the absence of financial assistance from the Central Government despite sending claims worth Rs. 10 thousand crore.
He highlighted the government's efforts to expedite relief by amending the relief manual for natural disasters.
In a bid for self-reliance, the state government announced initiatives to increase revenue, including the auction of liquor contracts.
Chief Minister Sukhu outlined plans for recruitment, reservation for women in police recruitment, and efforts to expedite pending revenue-related cases.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged efforts to address corruption, mentioning the exposure of recruitment scams. He concluded the event by acknowledging local contributions to the disaster relief fund and presenting certificates and tablets to deserving students.
Local MLAs praised the state government's relief package, contrasting it with the lack of support from the Centre.
The event, attended by political and community leaders, showcased collaborative efforts to rebuild and support those affected by the disaster.
