Should the Punjab Government Act Now on Flood Relief Measures?
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Synopsis
The Shiromani Akali Dal is demanding urgent action from the Aam Aadmi Party government regarding the devastating floods impacting numerous villages in Punjab. With significant agricultural and infrastructural damage, local leaders emphasize the need for immediate support for affected residents.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent flood relief needed in Punjab.
- Over 25 villages submerged in Sultanpur Lodhi.
- Health concerns rising due to stagnant waters.
- Immediate support for farmers required.
- Government must prioritize affected communities.
Chandigarh, Aug 18 (NationPress) The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has called upon the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab to swiftly implement flood relief measures. The recent flooding of villages and agricultural lands adjacent to the Beas, Sutlej, and Ravi rivers is causing severe hardships for the local populace.
In a statement released today, senior SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema highlighted the devastation caused by the Beas and Sutlej rivers in the districts of Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ferozepur, and Fazilka.
Cheema noted that in Sultanpur Lodhi and surrounding regions, over 25 villages have been submerged by the overflowing waters of the Beas. Similarly, more than 20 villages in the Mand area are experiencing significant flooding.
The Ravi River has also contributed to flooding in Gurdaspur, exacerbated by water releases from the Ujh River and the Ranjit Sagar dam. Villages near Dera Baba Nanak are facing similar challenges.
Moreover, the Ghaggar River has impacted areas in Patiala, and floodwaters have entered Sardulgarh town. Reports indicate that water releases from the Pong and Bhakra dams have led to inundation in fields across Hoshiarpur, Talwara, and Hajipur.
Cheema criticized the AAP government for appearing unaware of the dire circumstances unfolding in the state and urged immediate relief efforts.
He emphasized that many ‘deras’ are cut off, and residents urgently require drinking water, food, medicines, and fodder for livestock. He warned that stagnant water and power outages could lead to a spike in water-borne diseases.
“Healthcare professionals must be dispatched to these areas without delay,” he asserted.
Cheema also advocated for initial assessments and the disbursement of ad-hoc compensation to farmers for their destroyed paddy crops, as well as for damages incurred to livestock and homes.
Point of View
The call for immediate flood relief in Punjab underscores the government's responsibility to safeguard its citizens. The catastrophic flooding highlights the urgent need for effective disaster management and timely interventions to mitigate such crises in the future. The nation must rally behind affected communities.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas in Punjab are affected by flooding?
The flooding has predominantly impacted the districts of Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Patiala, and Hoshiarpur.
What relief measures are being requested?
The Shiromani Akali Dal is demanding immediate provision of food, drinking water, medicines, and fodder for livestock, as well as financial compensation for farmers.
How many villages have been affected?
Reports indicate that over 25 villages in Sultanpur Lodhi and more than 20 villages in the Mand area have been inundated.
