Shimla - In response to the devastating flash floods in Himachal Pradesh, Shri Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Judge of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh and Executive Chairman of the HP State Legal Services Authority, has issued a directive to all District Legal Services Authorities and Sub-Divisional Legal Services Committees to reach out to the flash-flood victims mainly children and women to support them in this crucial time.
The local victims of flash floods in Manali, Kalath, Alu Ground, Bahang, Riason, Pandoh, Aut, Thalot, Kasol, Bhuntar, Sainj, Mandi and several other places still cry for proper attention and support as many of them have lost their properties and houses and sources of livelihoods.
They have yet to come to term with trauma they suffered when the furious Beas and Parbati rivers battered their houses and shopes and dhabhas and kiosks in these places.
Thousands of bikers were on their way back home from Manali and Manikaran after the road was partially restored on July 11. 
The fate of labourers and daily bread winners both migratory and locals remain uncertain as they still can be seen walking on the breached roads seeking some help and assistance.
The HPSLSA's aim is to provide strategic intervention and support to the victims, focusing on healthcare, sanitation, and the needs of women and children.
The recent heavy and incessant rains have triggered intense flash floods and landslides, resulting in a significant loss of lives and property across the state.
The affected victims are currently facing immense hardships and require urgent assistance.
To alleviate their suffering, Legal Services Institutions have been urged to coordinate with governmental and non-governmental agencies, NGOs, self-help groups, and voluntary organizations, said Prem Pal Ranta, Member secretary, HPSLSA.
District Legal Services Authorities and Sub-Divisional Legal Services Committees are instructed to take the following immediate steps within their respective jurisdictions,
- Engage with the victims and their families to understand their immediate needs and provide assistance. Maintain a list and details of these requirements and coordinate with the relevant authorities accordingly.
- Aid in the reconstruction of lost documents such as Aadhar Cards, Ration Cards, PAN Cards, Gas Connections, and Bank Papers for the affected victims and their families.
- Deploy the services of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) to reach out to the victims in the affected areas and gather relevant information.
- Establish virtual communication channels or utilize alternative methods to reach victims if road connectivity is disrupted. Gather information on the victims' suffering through representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions and local bodies.
- Publicize and circulate the national helpline number, 15100, and the landline numbers of District Legal Services Authorities as helpline numbers for the victims. Encourage widespread awareness among the general public.
- Regularly attend to helpline numbers to provide immediate help and legal assistance.
- Create WhatsApp groups at all District Legal Services Authority levels to facilitate the collection and sharing of information regarding the disaster.
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Offer immediate free legal services to the victims, as they are eligible to file or defend a case in the aftermath of the disaster.
This strategic intervention by the Legal Services Institutions aims to mitigate the suffering of the victims and provide them with the necessary support and assistance.
The concerted efforts of governmental and non-governmental agencies, NGOs, self-help groups, and voluntary organizations are crucial in providing relief to those affected by this tragic event, said Ranta.
For further information or to seek help and assistance, victims of the disaster can contact the National Helpline Number, 15100, or reach out to their respective District Legal Services Authorities and Sub-Divisional Legal Services Committees.
