Himachal (Kameshwar Sharma): Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired a high-level meeting in Shimla to review disaster risk reduction efforts in Himachal Pradesh.
The meeting focused on strengthening scientific research and improving disaster preparedness in the state. Officials discussed ongoing work at the Himachal Pradesh University’s Himalayan Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience.
Focus on Cloudburst Study and Scientific Research
The Chief Minister directed the HPU Centre to conduct a detailed scientific study on repeated cloudburst incidents in the state.
Moreover, he asked experts to analyse dam impacts, temperature changes, geographical conditions, and aerial-distance based data from the Himalayan region.
He emphasized that the state government will use this centre for all major research and development activities related to disaster studies.
In addition, he highlighted the need for deeper understanding of disaster patterns in Himachal Pradesh.
Government Strengthens Disaster Management Capacity
CM Sukhu announced major financial support for disaster management systems.
He directed the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) to allocate ₹6 crore for training and capacity building of the centre.
Furthermore, he approved an additional ₹10 crore for institutional strengthening and expansion.
He also sanctioned ₹1 crore for scientific studies on Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
These steps aim to build stronger technical and scientific capacity within the state.
Emphasis on Expert Recruitment and Expansion
The Chief Minister stressed the need to hire more professionals and subject experts.
He said this will improve technical strength and research quality in disaster-related studies.
Moreover, he instructed officials to extend research work to other sensitive regions of Himachal Pradesh.
He also highlighted the importance of post-disaster needs assessment studies to support recovery planning.
Support for Reducing External Dependence
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi stressed the importance of reducing dependence on external agencies.
He said the state must build strong in-house technical and scientific capabilities.
Furthermore, he appreciated efforts to develop DPRs, technical expertise, and disaster planning systems within the state.
He supported the goal of making Himachal self-reliant in disaster risk studies.
Presentation on Flash Flood Risk in Thunag
During the meeting, experts presented a hydrodynamic model for the Thunag area in Mandi district.
The model explained flash flood impacts, risk-based planning, and early warning systems.
In addition, the presentation highlighted the centre’s role in climate risk studies, hazard mapping, and disaster mitigation planning.
Officials also discussed how this research can improve emergency response systems.
Experts and Officials Present in Meeting
Several senior officials attended the meeting, including Mahavir Singh and Centre Director Prof. N. S. Negi.
They supported the state’s vision for stronger disaster preparedness.
Moreover, they agreed that scientific research must guide future policy decisions in Himachal Pradesh.
5 Key Takeaways of CM Sukhu Chairs Disaster Risk Review Meeting in Shimla:
- CM Sukhu reviewed disaster risk reduction plan at HPU Shimla
- Focus on scientific study of cloudburst and climate risks
- ₹17 crore+ funding approved for disaster research and training
- Experts urged to reduce dependence on external agencies
- Hydrodynamic model presented for flash flood risk in Mandi
