Himachal CM Sukhu orders scientific study on recurring cloudburst incidents
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), May 9, 2026:Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday directed authorities to undertake a detailed scientific study into the recurring cloudburst incidents across the state, stressing the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and resilience planning.
Chairing a high-level meeting in Shimla on disaster risk reduction and research initiatives, the Chief Minister said frequent cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh have been causing heavy losses to life and property and require comprehensive scientific analysis.
Study to Examine Dams, Terrain and Climate Factors
The Chief Minister instructed the Himalayan Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience at Himachal Pradesh University to conduct in-depth studies on factors linked to cloudburst events, including the impact of dams, changing temperatures, terrain conditions, and aerial-distance-based patterns in the Himalayan region.
He further announced that all state-level research and technical evaluations related to disasters, hazard assessment, and resilience planning would now be carried out through the Centre.
Rs 17 Crore Support for Disaster Research
To strengthen the institution’s capabilities, the Chief Minister directed the Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) to allocate Rs 6 crore for specialized training and capacity building programmes.
An additional Rs 10 crore was also approved for institutional strengthening and expansion of scientific and technical infrastructure. Besides this, the government sanctioned Rs 1 crore for initiating scientific studies related to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the state.
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to recruit additional professionals and domain experts to enhance the Centre’s research and technical capacity.
Need for Stronger In-House Expertise
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi emphasized the importance of developing in-house scientific expertise for disaster management instead of depending on external agencies for landslide and GLOF studies.
He appreciated the Centre’s contribution in preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), technical assessments, and strengthening disaster-related scientific capabilities within the state.
Flash Flood Assessment Model Presented
During the meeting, experts presented a hydrodynamic model developed for the Thunag region of Mandi district to scientifically assess flash flood impacts and improve early warning systems.
The Centre also highlighted its ongoing work in climate risk studies, hazard assessment, mitigation planning, and technical support for the state government.
Senior officials, including HPTDC Chairman R. S. Singh Bali, HPU Vice-Chancellor Mahavir Singh, Centre Director N. S. Negi, and Deputy Director Mahesh Sharma, were present during the meeting.