Shimla: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Himalayan Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience at Himachal Pradesh University to undertake a detailed scientific study on recurring cloudburst incidents in the state. The study will examine factors such as the impact of dams, temperature variations, terrain conditions, and aerial-distance-based assessments linked to frequent cloudburst events in the Himalayan region.
High-Level Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction
Chairing a high-level meeting on disaster risk reduction and resilience planning on Friday evening, Sukhu stated that cloudbursts had become increasingly frequent in Himachal Pradesh, causing heavy losses to life and property. He emphasized the urgent need for scientific analysis to understand the patterns and causes behind such disasters.
Financial Support and Research Initiatives
The Chief Minister announced major financial support for strengthening the centre's research and technical capabilities. He directed the State Disaster Management Authority to allocate Rs 6 crore for specialised training programmes and capacity building. An additional Rs 10 crore was approved for institutional strengthening and expansion of research infrastructure. Sukhu also sanctioned Rs 1 crore to initiate scientific studies on glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in the state and instructed authorities to provide further assistance for related research.
Expertise and Capacity Building
Sukhu stressed the need to recruit additional professionals and domain experts to improve the centre's scientific and technical expertise. Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi underlined the importance of developing in-house technical capabilities for landslide and GLOF studies instead of relying on external agencies.
Hydrodynamic Model for Flash Flood Assessment
During the meeting, the centre presented a hydrodynamic model for the Thunag region in Mandi district aimed at assessing flash flood impacts and strengthening early warning systems. This model is expected to enhance preparedness and response to sudden flood events in vulnerable areas.
