Himachal Pradesh: More than a month after the twin landslides that struck Kullu’s inner Akhara Bazaar on September 3 and 4, killing 10 people and reducing homes to rubble, residents are still awaiting relief. They have once again appealed to authorities to clear the debris around their homes and remove the stone boxes and large boulders hanging over the area, posing a serious threat to life and property. Locals are urging the Kullu MLA to use the funds saved from small Dussehra celebrations to clear the debris and stabilize habitable areas in the Khaned area. They say this redistribution is essential to make the area safe enough for displaced families to return.
Sanjeev, a resident, said Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu had promised to provide monthly rental assistance of ₹10,000 to the affected families. However, he said no formal notification has yet been issued. Another resident, Priya, expressed her concern about the upcoming winter rains and warned that without immediate repairs to the drainage and sewerage systems in the Math area, the community would remain vulnerable to new landslides and floods. These twin disasters forced dozens of families to live in temporary shelters. Despite the passage of time, many remain displaced and eagerly await government action to restore safety and normalcy. The broader picture in Kullu district is equally grim. Official figures show that incessant rains, floods, and landslides this monsoon season have caused losses worth ₹384 crore. A total of 116 houses were completely destroyed, 453 partially damaged, and 29 people lost their lives, while two are still missing.
Infrastructure has suffered massive damage. The Public Works Department has reported losses of over ₹35 crore, while the Jal Shakti Department has suffered losses of over ₹143 crore. Landslides have been reported in 69 villages, forcing large-scale evacuations. Officials say geological surveys are underway to assess long-term habitability and identify potential resettlement areas. Nevertheless, district officials acknowledge the daunting task of rehabilitating displaced families and restoring essential services before winter arrives. Ganesh Thakur, Kullu’s district revenue officer, said, “Many people are living in tents despite their homes being unsafe. The administration is working toward a permanent solution, but it will take time.” However, for the residents of Inner Akhara Bazaar, time is a luxury they cannot afford. Their message to the authorities is clear: remove the debris, eliminate the danger, and let us return home.
