After failed copter landing in Malana, Kullu SDM Vikas Shukla sends ration via Nepali labourers
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In a determined effort to deliver essential ration to the remote Malana village in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, a team of the local administration, led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vikas Shukla, has turned to manual labour after a helicopter delivery attempt failed due to the challenging terrain.
Speaking exclusively to The Newz Radar, Kullu-Sadar SDM Vikas Shukla stated, “We have engaged 45 Nepali labourers to carry the ration till midpoint. Only the Nepalese can take up this challenge. In five-six days, we will deliver one truck worth of dry ration.”
The SDM said the Nepalese would carry the ration on foot to the temple of Jamdagni Rishi where Malana panchayat pradhan Raju Ram would take charge and oversee the final distribution to the villagers. “So far, 15 quintals of ration have been delivered to Malana,” said Vikas Shukla, highlighting the administration’s continued efforts to provide relief despite the logistical hurdles.
The helicopter, which had taken off from Bhuntar airport, was unable to land at the makeshift helipad prepared by the villagers, forcing the crew to drop the supplies from the air. Many of the ration packets were damaged upon impact, leaving the hopes of villagers unfulfilled.
Malana has been cut off from regular supply routes since July 31 when a cloudburst caused extensive damage to the Jari-Malana road. With road access severed, and the trek routes from Chanderkhani and Rasol deemed too risky for transporting supplies, the administration faces significant challenges in providing aid to the villagers.
The SDM acknowledged the difficulties faced in the helicopter operations, but stressed the administration was determined to ensure the villagers received the necessary aid.
