Centre Deploys Team to Examine Disaster Risks in Himachal

Rapid Summary:

• Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has directed the formation of a multi-sectoral central team to address rising natural disasters in Himachal pradesh.
• The team will include experts from institutions like NDMA, CBRI Roorkee, IITM Pune, IIT Indore, and geologists.
• Himachal Pradesh has faced increasing incidents of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, and torrential rainfall resulting in loss of life and infrastructure damage during the ongoing monsoon season.
• The Central government has deputed an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) for on-site assessments even before receiving a formal request from the State government.
• A high-level committee chaired by Mr. Shah approved ₹2,006.40 crore for recovery and reconstruction efforts in disaster-hit areas of Himachal Pradesh during 2023; ₹451.44 crore has already been released as the first installment.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The proactive stance by the Central government highlights its recognition of the vulnerabilities faced by Himachal Pradesh due to climate-related disasters that have intensified recently. Forming a multi-sectoral central team signals an interdisciplinary focus aimed at addressing long-term implications alongside immediate relief efforts-a necessity given rising environmental degradation linked with such disasters.

The advanced deployment of IMCT showcases preparedness but also underscores urgent support requirements for states prone to frequent calamities like Himachal Pradesh amid changing climatic patterns. Both financial aid-₹2,006 crore-and expert intervention reflect an integrated approach towards mitigating risks while ensuring infrastructure recovery crucial for sustainable development in vulnerable regions.

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