Kullu, 14 January 2025: Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the establishment of a fire station in Banjar while visiting the fire-ravaged Tandi village in Jibhi Valley, Kullu, where 17 houses and six cowsheds were reduced to ashes on New Year’s Day.
The tragedy left 33 families homeless as flames rapidly engulfed wooden structures filled with firewood and fodder, wiping out nearly half the village.
Addressing relief efforts, Sukhu stated, “Our priority is to provide immediate shelter and support to affected families while rebuilding their homes.” He announced financial aid of ₹7 lakh for completely destroyed houses, ₹50,000 for cowshed reconstruction, and free electricity and water connections for the new homes. Families hosting victims in temporary shelters will receive ₹5,000 per month for six months, with extensions as needed, he added.
Sukhu directed the Kullu Deputy Commissioner to provide construction wood from the forest depot or through TD regulations using dried or felled trees. He also allocated ₹1 crore for upgrading the 8-km Jibhi-Tandi road and ₹75 lakh to construct an alternative 2-km link road. To resolve electricity issues, a 100 kW transformer will be installed. Plans for promoting eco-tourism and establishing a 500 kW solar power project were also proposed.
The fire destroyed property worth over ₹10 crore, including jewellery and ornaments belonging to deity Gadpati Sheshnag, stored in the village’s sacred “kothi.” Sukhu assured funding for the renovation of the deity’s temple, stressing the cultural significance of the region.
Generous contributions from individuals, including ₹50,000 donations, along with relief materials such as jackets and food rations, have poured in from local associations and philanthropists to assist the affected families.
The Chief Minister underscored the government’s commitment to long-term recovery while expressing solidarity with the village in this time of crisis.
