Punjab is facing a dire situation as catastrophic flooding, the worst since 1988, has swept across the state, submerging vast areas and displacing thousands of residents. Heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir has caused the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers to overflow, leading to widespread inundation of farmlands and villages. The crisis has mobilized a massive response from government authorities, local communities, and the global Punjabi diaspora.
Widespread Devastation and Rescue Operations: The floodwaters have wreaked havoc in several districts, with Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Fazilka, Kapurthala, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Hoshiarpur, and Amritsar being among the worst-hit. Numerous low-lying villages in these regions are completely submerged, forcing families to evacuate and seek refuge in temporary relief camps. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are working around the clock to rescue stranded people and deliver essential supplies. Social media is also playing a key role, with residents and NRIs sharing information and organizing donation drives to support the victims.
Government Takes Swift Action: In response to the escalating crisis, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has instructed all district administrations to step up their rescue and relief operations. The Chief Minister is scheduled to chair a high-level meeting in Chandigarh today to take stock of the situation and formulate a comprehensive action plan for relief and rehabilitation. The state government has also announced a special girdawari (loss assessment) to ensure that affected residents are fully compensated for the damage to their crops, homes, and property.
Patiala on High Alert: In Patiala district, the administration has intensified precautions and activated a dedicated flood control room. Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) have been issuing alerts to residents in low-lying villages, urging them to remain vigilant and move to safer ground. The Patiala District Control Room is operational and can be reached at 0175-2350550 and 0175-2358550. Authorities have emphasized the importance of relying on official information and avoiding the spread of rumors, which can hinder rescue efforts.
The current situation brings back grim memories for many in Patiala, which has a history of severe flooding, including the devastating floods of 1993 that submerged Rajpura and Samana, and another significant event in 2023. This history underscores the urgent need for robust flood management systems to protect communities from future disasters. The Punjab government and various relief organizations are now focused on not just immediate relief, but also long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of such events.