New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu has expressed her profound sorrow over the loss of numerous lives in rain-related accidents in Himachal Pradesh.
"I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate news of multiple casualties due to heavy rains in Himachal Pradesh. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the grieving families, and I extend my wishes for a swift recovery to those who have been injured," read a rough translation of her Hindi message on X, (Twitter).
Tragedy struck as a temple in Shimla collapsed following a landslide caused by intense rainfall on Monday, leading to the loss of nine lives and leaving several individuals potentially trapped under the debris. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu took charge of the rescue operation and reiterated his government's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of those affected. "Overseeing the ongoing rescue efforts in the aftermath of the devastating landslide near Shiv Temple in Summerhill, Shimla. With the utmost emphasis on life-saving endeavors, the government remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding the well-being of those who are trapped. My heartfelt prayers are with everyone impacted by this calamitous incident brought on by the heavy rainfall," the Chief Minister shared on X.
Earlier, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed condolences for the lives lost and highlighted the ongoing attempts to extricate individuals stuck under the debris of the collapsed temple in the Summer Hill vicinity.
"Presently, nine bodies have been recovered. The local administration is working diligently to clear the debris and rescue any individuals who might still be trapped," the Himachal Pradesh chief minister posted on X.
Accompanied by state minister Vikramaditya Singh, Chief Minister Sukhu also visited the site of the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
"Approximately twenty to twenty-five people remain entrapped under the debris at this location. The state has witnessed a total of twenty-one casualties in the last twenty-four hours. I urge everyone to remain indoors and avoid areas susceptible to landslides and river overflow. Restoration efforts will commence once the rainfall subsides," the chief minister said..
Himachal Rainfall Triggers Landslide Concerns: Over 20 Feared Buried