In light of the ongoing monsoon season, Himachal Pradeshs Public Works Department (PWD) has cancelled the leaves or holidays of all its employees. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to ensure swift action and response to any weather-related disruptions. The states Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, upon his return from Delhi, is scheduled to hold a crucial meeting with the Departments secretary and engineers.   Due to the monsoon, the PWD has decided that employees will only be allowed leave under special circumstances. The Government has directed the Chief Engineers of all four zones to conduct field inspections and submit detailed reports on the condition of roads and bridges. Minister Vikramaditya Singh will be holding weekly meetings at the Secretariat to review the damage caused by the monsoon and to ensure that measures are promptly implemented. Currently, 13,000 employees are deployed in the field, with plans to increase this number if necessary.   The PWD has deployed 500 machines to restore road connectivity affected by the monsoon. Instructions have been issued for Chief Engineers, Executive Engineers, Junior Engineers, supervisors, and operators of heavy machinery such as Poclain, dozers, robots, and JCBs to remain on duty at all times to ensure quick response and road maintenance.   With the apple season starting next month, ensuring road accessibility is critical. Last year, the State suffered significant financial losses due to natural disasters. To prevent similar incidents, specialized teams will be formed in vulnerable areas to monitor water levels in rivers and streams. These teams are tasked with providing timely updates to the government in case of rising water levels.   Upon returning from Delhi, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh will convene a meeting with PWD officials, including the secretary and engineers. The agenda includes discussions on suggestions from the Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Several infrastructure projects in Himachal Pradesh are currently stalled due to pending forest clearances, and the upcoming meeting aims to address these issues and expedite project approvals.   The decision to cancel leaves and ensure constant field presence is part of a broader strategy to improve the states preparedness for monsoon-related challenges. By maintaining a robust on-ground presence, the PWD aims to minimize disruptions and safeguard infrastructure. The comprehensive approach includes regular field inspections, continuous monitoring of water bodies, and rapid deployment of machinery and personnel.   In 2023, the hill state recorded its highest rainfall since 1998, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The unprecedented rainfall in July and August triggered devastating floods and landslides, claiming over 400 lives and injuring as many, with several missing. The state faced losses exceeding Rs 10,000 crore. Additionally, 10,140 livestock perished, 5,644 cowsheds were destroyed, and significant damage occurred to buildings, with 2,546 houses and 317 shops completely ruined. Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan, and Chamba districts were the worst-affected, experiencing severe impact from 163 landslides and 72 flash floods.

Stay updated with all the Chandigarh Latest News headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.