TNR News Network
SHIMLA: In the wake of severe destruction caused by rain-triggered flashfloods across Himachal Pradesh, the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led state government is gearing up to introduce stricter construction regulations to ensure building safety.
A Cabinet sub-committee formed to assess disaster management has submitted its report, recommending mandatory geological surveys and the use of solid, stable land for all future constructions. This proposal will be presented at the upcoming Cabinet meeting for further approval.
Districts like Mandi, Kullu and Shimla have witnessed significant damage this year due to landslides, floods and heavy rainfall. The state government estimates the losses at approximately Rs 2,347 crore so far. A major concern remains the haphazard and unregulated construction practices prevalent in the region.
Many individuals are building homes without consulting structural engineers, often relying solely on contractors. Columns are erected without adhering to standard spacing or material usage guidelines, making structures highly vulnerable.
The authorities have also reiterated a key rule: no buildings should be constructed too close to rivers and streams. While this directive was already in place for government infrastructure, it will now be strictly enforced for private construction as well. Buildings near water bodies have repeatedly collapsed during recent floods, leading to tragic losses.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, after visiting disaster-hit areas, chaired a review meeting with the Cabinet sub-committee. Officials had earlier prepared on-ground reports highlighting risks and damage, forming the basis of the committee’s recommendations.
38 bailey bridges to be installed in disaster-affected areas
In a bid to restore connectivity in areas severely impacted by disasters, the central government has sanctioned Rs 30 crore to Himachal Pradesh’s Public Works Department (PWD) for the construction of bridges.
With this funding, the state plans to procure 38 bailey bridges and construct RCC (reinforced cement concrete) bridges across districts like Mandi, Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur and Una.
PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh confirmed that 21 bridges collapsed this year due to extreme weather events. The state has already purchased some bailey bridges as a precautionary measure following last year’s monsoon havoc. These modular bridges are being deployed in areas like Shimla, Mandi and Kullu where permanent structures were washed away.
In cases where repair is possible, the government will prioritise restoration, while new bailey bridges will be rapidly installed at locations with complete structural failure.
The minister said that bulldozers and JCBs had been deployed to clear blocked roads, especially in apple-growing belts where timely transport is critical. Departments have been instructed to submit daily reports, and both state officials and ministers are conducting site inspections to monitor ongoing restoration efforts.
