Will Punjab Initiate Rehabilitation in 2,300 Villages as Floodwaters Recede?

Chandigarh, Sep 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, declared on Saturday a comprehensive rehabilitation and cleanliness initiative with a budget of Rs 100 crore targeting 2,300 villages that were affected by flooding.

During a media briefing, the Chief Minister noted that with floodwaters now receding in several regions, a significant volume of silt and mud has settled in villages and towns.

“To facilitate the return to normalcy, it is crucial to carry out cleaning efforts in these areas, prompting the government to launch a large-scale cleanliness operation in all 2,300 affected villages and wards,” he stated.

Mann explained that teams equipped with JCB machines and tractor-trolleys have been formed in each village to remove silt and debris, ensuring a thorough cleaning process.

Reports indicate that approximately 2.5 lakh animals in 713 villages have suffered due to the floods; therefore, the government has initiated a campaign aimed at protecting them and assisting farmers.

He mentioned that the government has earmarked Rs 100 crore for this entire initiative, with an initial allocation of Rs 1 lakh to each affected village to commence operations.

Any additional needs will also be addressed using these funds, with the government covering the full cost of cleaning efforts.

Setting a timeline, the Chief Minister announced that by September 24, all villages will be cleared of silt and debris, and by October 15, repairs to public areas will be finalized.

Additionally, he noted that pond clean-up will be completed by October 22.

Mann emphasized the importance of preventing disease outbreaks post-floods. As part of this effort, medical camps will be established in all 2,303 flood-affected villages. In the 596 villages where Aam Aadmi Clinics already operate, medical services and supplies will be readily available.

In the other 1,707 villages, medical camps will be set up in community spaces, each equipped with doctors, medical personnel, and facilities.

The government has also arranged for 550 ambulances to support this special campaign, ensuring that residents of affected villages have timely access to medical services.

Additionally, teams of veterinary doctors have been dispatched throughout all villages, and a dedicated campaign for cleaning and disinfecting animals and their shelters is underway.

The Chief Minister announced that crop procurement will commence sooner this year, with preparations already in place at mandis to ensure procurement starts from September 16.

The mandis impacted by the floods are currently being cleaned and repaired on a priority basis, with expectations to have them ready for procurement by September 19.