How is Sant Seechewal Rescuing Cattle from Punjab Floods Using Special Boats?
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Synopsis
In a touching display of compassion, Sant Seechewal is undertaking the monumental task of rescuing livestock from devastating floods in Punjab. Using specially crafted boats, he and his volunteers are providing vital aid to both animals and affected residents, showcasing an inspiring example of community spirit in times of crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Sant Seechewal is rescuing livestock using specially designed boats.
- Over 15,000 acres of crops have been damaged due to flooding.
- He and his volunteers cover a radius of 32 km daily to provide aid.
- A significant portion of the local population has evacuated to safer areas.
- Community support is crucial in overcoming this crisis.
Sultanpur Lodhi (Punjab), Sep 4 (NationPress) In a remarkable act of compassion, following his rescue of numerous stranded villagers from floodwaters in Punjab, environmentalist Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal—who gained recognition for revitalizing the nearly lifeless 160-km-long Kali Bein, a rivulet of great significance to Sikhs—unveiled the next phase of relief efforts on Thursday: the transportation of large numbers of livestock using newly crafted boats built on traditional knowledge.
The AAP's Rajya Sabha MP, Sant Seechewal, alongside his dedicated volunteers, has been navigating boats from home to home daily since August 11, distributing relief materials to those affected and providing feed to livestock that survived the floods, although many have sadly perished.
This innovative raft was constructed in just three days under the guidance of Padamshree Sant Seechewal, whose efforts to restore the sacred rivulet with community involvement were praised by former President of India, the late Dr Abdul Kalam.
“The floods have had a devastating impact on both human lives and domesticated animals. A new fleet has been launched to rescue animals en masse from flood-impacted regions. This specially designed boat can also evacuate livestock and farmers’ tractors to higher ground,” Sant Seechewal, known for his signature maroon robes, informed IANS.
Each journey can transport up to 20 cattle to safety, based on their relocation destination.
Additionally, farming equipment, such as combine harvesters, can be moved as well.
Affectionately referred to as 'Baba ji', Sant Seechewal and his volunteers cover a radius of 32 kilometers daily in 10 hours in Mand, an island situated on the Beas River, reaching every household ensnared in waist-deep turbulent waters to deliver ‘prasadam’ (food).
At present, 46 villages in Mand, located in the Kapurthala district, are suffering from the floods, with over 15,000 acres of crops damaged.
Risking their safety in the swirling floodwaters, Sant Seechewal noted that the swollen Beas River, flowing rapidly above the danger mark, has breached several temporary embankments and altered its course.
“This time, the devastation is unprecedented compared to the floods of 2023,” he stated.
He emphasized ongoing efforts to safeguard vulnerable sections of the temporary embankments.
Furthermore, he has been seen feeding abandoned cattle stranded in flooded paddies and dogs left behind in houses.
Sant Seechewal personally fills sandbags and carries logs to breach sites in an effort to prevent additional destruction.
He has appealed to philanthropists for donations of motorboats, as roads are submerged, necessitating reliance on boats to transport essentials, including food, drinking water, and livestock feed. He estimated that it would take at least 20 days for water levels to recede in fields and residential areas.
In addition to Punjab government boats, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army have deployed boats for relief operations across the state, which is experiencing the most severe floods in four decades.
On social media, individuals have expressed gratitude to a gentleman from Kapurthala for transforming his factory into a boat construction site. “Ramgarhia Sikhs building boats for flood-affected areas of Punjab. Pura punjab ik hai. Love my Sikh brothers,” a post on X states.
Punjab Revenue Minister Hardeep Mundian confirmed that the state is enduring one of the most severe floods in recent history, with significant agricultural losses reported across 175,216 hectares.
He noted that districts such as Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Mansa, Ferozepur, and Fazilka have been among the hardest hit, accounting for the majority of agricultural damage. The extent of destruction to crops, villages, and populations underscores the severity of this disaster that has affected 23 districts across Punjab.
(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)
Point of View
Sant Seechewal's efforts represent a profound commitment to humanitarianism and environmentalism. His approach not only addresses the immediate crisis but also highlights the importance of community collaboration in overcoming adversity. Such actions should be recognized and supported to foster a culture of resilience and compassion across the nation.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sant Seechewal doing to help during the floods?
Sant Seechewal is leading a relief operation to rescue livestock and provide aid to flood-affected villagers in Punjab, using specially crafted boats.
How are the boats used by Sant Seechewal made?
The boats are constructed using indigenous knowledge and traditional methods, allowing for effective transportation of livestock and essential supplies.
What areas are most affected by the floods?
Currently, 46 villages in the Mand region of Kapurthala district are severely impacted, with significant agricultural damage reported.
What kind of supplies is Sant Seechewal providing?
He is delivering food, drinking water, and fodder for livestock to the affected residents and animals.
How can people help in this situation?
Philanthropists are encouraged to donate motorboats and other resources to aid in the ongoing relief efforts.
