CM directs officials to swiftly restore essential services in snowbound areas

SHIMLA 23rd January, 2026

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today issued comprehensive directives to the officers and officials of the State Government to ensure normalcy across various regions of Himachal Pradesh affected by heavy snowfall. Emphasizing the need for immediate action, the Chief Minister instructed officials to work on a war footing to restore essential services that have been disrupted due to snowfall. He specifically mandated that roads leading to hospitals and other emergency service institutions be cleared on a priority basis to ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare. To minimize public inconvenience, he directed the deployment of adequate manpower and heavy machinery to expedite the reopening of blocked road networks.
Furthering his instructions, Sh. Sukhu called for the swift restoration of power and water supply schemes in the affected areas. He asked all district administrations to remain vigilant and provide immediate assistance to those in need. The Department of Food and Civil Supplies, along with the State Civil Supplies Corporation, has been directed to take proactive measures to ensure a steady and uninterrupted supply of foodgrains and essential commodities in snow-bound sectors. The Chief Minister also emphasized that all departments must strictly and actively adhere to the safety guidelines issued by the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority.
In a positive note regarding the weather, the Chief Minister observed that the rain and snowfall have brought much-needed relief to the State’s farmers and orchardists, providing a significant boost to the rural economy. He also extended a warm welcome to tourists, noting that the fresh snowfall is expected to invigorate tourism-related activities across the State. Addressing long-term concerns, he remarked on the continuous impact of climate change on the environment and stated that the State Government has directed officials to conduct in-depth studies on climate change. This initiative aims to integrate necessary environmental conservation provisions into future policies and development programs to ensure a sustainable future for Himachal Pradesh.