In a decisive show of solidarity and urgency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday undertook an aerial survey of the flood and landslide-hit districts of Mandi and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s ongoing disaster response. The visit, which included direct engagement with affected families and a high-level review meeting, underscored the Centre’s resolve to support Himachal Pradesh “shoulder-to-shoulder” during one of its most devastating monsoon seasons in recent memory.
Ground Zero: Aerial Survey and Human Connection
Landing at Kangra Airport after the aerial inspection, PM Modi was received by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. He immediately convened a strategic review session with state officials and emergency responders. The Prime Minister was briefed on the staggering toll: 370 lives lost, widespread destruction of public infrastructure, and severe disruption to essential services like water, electricity, and transportation.
In a deeply human moment, PM Modi met with survivors, including a one-year-old child who lost their parents and grandmother in the floods. His interactions reflected a compassionate leadership style, offering both condolences and assurances of sustained support.
Relief Measures: Financial and Structural Aid
To accelerate recovery, the Prime Minister announced a comprehensive ₹1,500 crore relief package. Key components include:
- Advance release of SDRF funds to enable immediate response
- PM Kisan Samman Nidhi disbursements to support affected farmers
- PM Awas Yojana allocations for rebuilding homes
- Restoration of national highways and critical infrastructure
- Ex-gratia payments of ₹2 lakh for the deceased’s next of kin and ₹50,000 for the seriously injured
- PMNRF support for urgent humanitarian needs
This multi-pronged aid strategy aims to rebuild not just physical assets but also restore livelihoods and community resilience.
On the Ground: Rescue and Rehabilitation
Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, and Aapda Mitra volunteers continue to work around the clock, restoring connectivity and delivering essential supplies to isolated regions. PM Modi commended their tireless efforts, reinforcing the importance of coordinated disaster response.
Regional Outlook: Punjab Next in Line
Following his Himachal visit, the Prime Minister is slated to conduct a similar aerial survey in Punjab, which has also been battered by monsoon-triggered floods. This signals a broader, region-wide intervention strategy by the central government to address the cascading impact of extreme weather events.
