Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday (February 24, 2026) said climate change has posed serious challenges, resulting in unprecedented cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides and shrinking glaciers in the hill State.
Terming these developments as warning signals and seeking urgent remedial measures, Mr. Sukhu asserted that any disturbance to the Himalayas would have the worst consequences not only for the State but for the entire nation.
Referring to the 2023 disaster during the monsoon season, he noted that more than 23,000 houses were destroyed in the state. He said that Himachal Pradesh was not merely a geographical entity but the soul of the Himalayas. “The State’s glaciers, rivers, forests and mountains define its identity and sustain millions beyond its borders,” he said.
The Chief Minister was speaking at the release of the report titled ‘Scientific Assessment of Tackling Non-CO2 Emissions: Pathways for Himachal Pradesh’.
He said the State is fighting for its rightful dues, adding that the State government will not proceed with upcoming projects such as the Kishau and Renuka Dams unless the neighbouring States provide concrete assurances to settle the long-pending arrears of the Bhakra Beas Management Board.
