Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has invited tourists to visit Himachal Pradesh, assuring them that while some regions have been affected by torrential rains, a large part of the state remains safe and open for exploration.
Photo:SNS
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has invited tourists to visit Himachal Pradesh, assuring them that while some regions have been affected by torrential rains, a large part of the state remains safe and open for exploration.
He said that misleading narratives on social media were hurting the tourism industry and stressed that the state continues to welcome visitors with warmth and safety.
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He said this while speaking to the media on the sidelines of the installation ceremony of a 108-foot-tall Hanuman Dhwaja (flag) at the historic Jakhu Temple premises in Shimla on Friday.
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Reassuring travellers, Sukhu said that Himachal Pradesh remains a beautiful, safe, and welcoming destination.
“Out of 70 lakh residents, the vast majority continue with normal life. Tourists are welcome to visit and experience the state’s hospitality and natural beauty,” he said.
The Chief Minister offered prayers at the temple and prayed for peace and prosperity for the people of the state.
He said that the Jakhu Temple holds deep spiritual significance and is a symbol of collective faith.
The government is committed to enhancing its spiritual and tourist appeal.
He also informed that a statue of Lord Ram is being installed at the temple complex, with procedural challenges related to the Forest Conservation Act currently being addressed.
Sukhu said that the state government plans to improve facilities for devotees at the temple, including parking, seating, and other amenities, while maintaining ecological balance.
Speaking on the issue of natural disasters, the Chief Minister said that the government is working continuously to provide relief and rehabilitation.
He said the Leader of the Opposition has also remained in contact, as his constituency — along with Seraj, Dharampur, Karsog, and Nachan — has suffered major losses.
He shared that Union Ministers were briefed on the extent of damage during his recent visit to New Delhi and expressed hope that the Union Home Minister’s upcoming visit to the state will bring concrete relief to the affected people.
He emphasised that non-forest land would be allocated to displaced families, while clearance from the Centre would be sought for the use of forest land. Sukhu added that the reopening of roads in the affected regions is a top priority to enable farmers and horticulturists to transport apples and other produce to markets.
The Chief Minister added that affected families would receive compensation for damage to their homes, livestock, and other belongings.
Relief camps have been set up, and those opting for rented accommodation will receive Rs 5,000 per month as rental assistance.
Later, he inaugurated a newly constructed Public Works Department rest house at Chhota Shimla, built at a cost of Rs 4.15 crore.
The facility, which includes nine suites, will be available to the public at uniform rates through an online booking system. He added that all rest houses would be integrated into this platform, with standardised rents for both VIPs and the general public at Himachal Bhawan and Himachal Sadan.
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