Shimla, Jul 16 (IANS): Saying the state faced the worst calamity in 50 years, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Sunday launched the Aapda Rahat Kosh -- 2023 website, a digital platform aimed at aiding the disaster-affected people of the state. 

Individuals can donate money from anywhere using various payment methods like debit card, credit card, net banking, QR code and UPI, an official statement said.

During the launch, the Chief Minister said the magnitude of the disaster is vast and people across the country and abroad have expressed their desire to assist.

He said to facilitate this support, the Department of Digital Technology and Governance developed a transparent web link where anyone can donate online and receive a receipt on their mobile device.

The system has been integrated with multiple payment gateways to ensure seamless transactions.

The Chief Minister said that preparations were underway to enable online donations from overseas donors within the next few days.

Sukhu expressed gratitude towards employee organisations and individuals nationwide who have already contributed to the Aapda Rahat Kosh -- 2023.

He said he himself and his cabinet colleagues, all Congress MLAs, have decided to donate their one month's salary towards the cause.

Highlighting the severity of the situation, the Chief Minister said Himachal Pradesh had faced immense losses due to the unprecedented rainfall, marking the worst calamity the state has experienced in 50 years.

He exhorted everyone to extend maximum financial support to help the state to recover from the devastation.