CHANDIGARH, Aug 30: Torrential floodwaters from rivers and tributaries in neighboring states have triggered massive destruction across seven districts, according to Punjab’s Water Resources Minister, Barinder Kumar Goyal. The minister stated that the regulated discharge, compounded by a sudden influx of floodwaters from khuds and nullahs, has exceeded historical records, leading to severe damage to infrastructure, crops, and livestock.
Goyal noted that the Ravi River, which carried 11.20 lakh cusecs of water in 1988, surged to an unprecedented 14.11 lakh cusecs this year. Approximately 2.15 lakh cusecs were released from the Ranjit Sagar Dam, with the remainder originating from khuds, nullahs, and catchment areas in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab. The deluge directly impacted three districts along the Ravi, while four others faced significant losses due to flooding from the Beas and Sutlej rivers.
In response, the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, prioritized rescue and relief operations. Over 11,330 people were evacuated to 87 relief camps, where they received food, shelter, and medical care. Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, and Indian Army airlifted nearly 110 individuals from stranded areas. “Saving every life was our top priority,” Goyal said, commending the efforts of district officials, patwaris, and volunteers.
The government also focused on livestock evacuation, utilizing market committee sheds and relief shelters in Ferozepur and Fazilka to house animals. Significant amounts of fodder were provided through state and voluntary efforts. “We ensured no animal was left unattended, as they cannot call for help,” Goyal emphasized.
Addressing criticism from opposition parties, the minister urged unity over political blame, calling for cooperation from political, social, and religious leaders in relief efforts. He also advocated for greater state authority in assessing damages and distributing compensation from national disaster funds, citing their proximity to affected areas.
(UNI)
Follow our WhatsApp channel
