Shimla, July 2 -- The Himachal Pradesh government on Wednesday launched restoration work on a "war footing" to restore infrastructure and provide relief to affected areas in the wake of devastating monsoon rains, which have caused widespread destruction in Mandi, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Sirmaur districts.
Loss of lives and extensive damage to roads, buildings, and water supply infrastructure have been reported.
To speed up relief and recovery, the Public Works Department (PWD) and Jal Shakti Department have cancelled the leave of all field employees, allowing exceptions only in urgent circumstances. Nearly 25,000 personnel have been deployed across affected areas to restore damaged roads and drinking water sources.
Public Works Minister Vikr...