BJP Criticizes Congress Over Mismanagement of Disaster Funds in Himachal Pradesh
BJP's Allegations Against Congress Government
Dharamshala - Senior spokesperson for the BJP, Trilok Kapoor, has strongly criticized the Congress-led government regarding the management of Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) funds in Himachal Pradesh, alleging significant irregularities in the disaster recovery efforts.
Kapoor pointed out that there are reports indicating that landslides were falsely documented in certain areas where no actual incidents took place. This has resulted in tenders being awarded and payments made without the necessary work being completed. He emphasized the need for a thorough and unbiased investigation into these claims.
He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the financial support extended to Himachal Pradesh following the 2023 disaster, insisting that the funds should be used solely for their designated purpose to ensure that relief reaches those affected.
On June 18, 2025, the central government approved a reconstruction package totaling ₹2,006.40 crore for Himachal Pradesh, which included a central allocation of ₹1,504.80 crore. The first installment of ₹451.44 crore was disbursed, followed by a second installment authorized under a government order dated January 13, 2026.
The second installment reportedly included ₹753.29 crore allocated for various departments, with ₹564.97 crore from the Centre and ₹188.32 crore from the state. This allocation comprised ₹487.80 crore for the Public Works Department, ₹176.48 crore for the Jal Shakti Department, ₹29.13 crore for Agriculture, and ₹18.22 crore for the Electricity Board.
Questioning the government's effectiveness, Kapoor raised concerns about the poor condition of many roads and bridges despite the substantial funding. He noted that reports from August 2026 indicated that 259 roads were blocked, and traffic disruptions were observed on National Highway-5 in Theog and Pooh areas during September.
He reiterated that official guidelines stipulate that PDNA funds should only be utilized for approved assets damaged in the 2023 disaster, warning that officials who authorize expenditures outside these guidelines would be held personally accountable.
Kapoor demanded clarity on whether physical assessments of the damage were conducted prior to awarding tenders. He also requested information on completed projects, payments made, and any investigations related to the disaster reconstruction package.
Alleging that contractors with political connections may have gained from the process, Kapoor called for transparency regarding allocations, tenders, contractors, and payments across all 68 Assembly constituencies. He further urged for a special audit, physical verification of projects, and a constituency-wise report on the use of PDNA funds.