Punjab Faces Worst Floods in Over 50 Years, Heavy Rain Causes Devastation
Punjab is currently battling the worst flood crisis it has seen in more than five decades. According to Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, relentless rains in the state and nearby hill regions have caused widespread destruction, impacting nearly 2,000 villages across all districts.
Over 400,000 people have been affected by the floods, and tragically, 43 lives have been lost in 14 districts. The floods have also hit the agriculture sector hard, damaging about 172,000 hectares of farmland across 18 districts. Homes, roads, and livestock have suffered significant damage as well.
The Ghaggar River is also at a dangerous level, crossing the 750-foot mark, raising concerns about potential further flooding.
In response, the Punjab government has acted quickly to help those affected. More than 22,000 people have been evacuated to safe locations, and around 200 relief camps have been set up across the state. These camps are currently sheltering over 7,000 displaced residents.
Rescue operations are being carried out by 24 teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and two teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). The relief work is supported by 144 boats and a government helicopter.
To fund the relief efforts, the Punjab Revenue Department has released Rs 71 crore. The state government and political leaders have also stepped forward to support victims. The entire Cabinet and all MLAs have pledged to donate one month’s salary to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Punjab MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party in both houses have promised to use their discretionary funds for flood relief. Additionally, Punjab’s Excise and Taxation Department has donated Rs 50 lakh.
However, Punjab’s Finance Minister Cheema criticized the Union government for its lack of sufficient support. He accused Union Ministers and officials of visiting only for photo opportunities without announcing any real assistance or relief packages. Cheema also rejected claims that illegal mining caused the floods, calling such accusations biased against Punjab.
He questioned why the Centre doesn’t explain the reasons behind floods in other states, pointing out inconsistency in their approach. The minister also condemned attempts by the central government to politicize the issue, saying Punjab, a state that has contributed greatly to the country’s development, deserves support instead of petty politics.
As Punjab fights this severe flood crisis, the focus remains on rescue efforts and ensuring support for those impacted. Authorities and leaders are urging unity and swift action to overcome this natural disaster.
