Is Punjab Facing Its Worst Flood Crisis in 50 Years?
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Synopsis
Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Cheema has declared this flood crisis as the worst the state has faced in fifty years, affecting over 400,000 individuals and leading to substantial agricultural damage. As rescue efforts continue, accountability and support from the Union government are critical for recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Penniless Punjab faces a severe flood crisis.
- Over 400,000 affected by the relentless rainfall.
- 172,000 hectares of farmland damaged.
- Government response includes evacuation and relief camps.
- Call for Union support amidst criticism of inadequate aid.
Chandigarh, Sep 6 (NationPress) Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Cheema declared on Saturday that the state is experiencing an unparalleled flood crisis, marking the most severe in the last five decades.
The relentless downpour across Punjab and the adjacent hilly regions has led to widespread destruction, impacting nearly 2,000 villages across all districts.
More than 400,000 individuals have been affected, with 43 fatalities reported across 14 districts. The agriculture sector has been severely hit, with 172,000 hectares of farmland damaged in 18 districts.
Moreover, significant losses have occurred in infrastructure, residences, and livestock.
The water level of the Ghaggar river has exceeded its danger mark of 750 feet.
The Finance Minister stated that the state government is responding to these unprecedented floods with swift action and compassion.
He highlighted the importance of accountability and support from the BJP-led Union Government, asserting that this crisis requires a united response rather than political maneuvering.
While speaking to the press, Minister Cheema remarked that despite the extensive destruction, the state government has executed a rapid and organized response.
He noted that over 22,000 people have been moved to safer areas.
About 200 relief camps have been set up statewide, currently providing shelter to more than 7,000 displaced individuals.
Rescue and relief efforts are underway with 24 teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and two teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), supported by 144 boats and a government helicopter.
The Finance Minister informed that the Revenue Department has allocated Rs 71 crore to aid relief operations.
“In a show of solidarity, the entire Cabinet and all MLAs have vowed to donate one month’s salary to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. Additionally, Aam Aadmi Party MPs from Punjab in both houses have pledged to utilize their discretionary funds to support flood victims. Our Excise and Taxation Department has also contributed Rs 50 lakh to this vital initiative,” he stated.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the Union government’s response, he criticized the lack of meaningful assistance, stating that Union Ministers and teams have only made appearances for photo ops without announcing any relief packages or financial support.
He also refuted the Centre's claims attributing the floods to illegal mining, calling it a blatant display of prejudice against Punjab.
He questioned why the Centre does not clarify the causes of flooding in other states, pointing out the inconsistency in their approach.
The Minister condemned the Centre's efforts to politicize the situation, stating that instead of aiding Punjab—a state that has significantly contributed to national growth and made sacrifices for its protection—the BJP at the Centre is engaging in trivial politics.
Point of View
The emphasis must remain on collaborative efforts to support affected communities. The need for transparent and timely assistance from the Union government is paramount, ensuring that the focus remains on recovery rather than political gain.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flooding in Punjab?
The recent unprecedented rainfall in Punjab and surrounding hilly states has led to widespread flooding, impacting thousands of villages.
How many people have been affected by the floods?
Over 400,000 individuals have been affected, with significant agricultural and infrastructural damage reported.
What measures are in place to assist flood victims?
The Punjab government has established relief camps, evacuated thousands of individuals, and mobilized rescue teams to provide necessary assistance.
Is the Union government providing support?
The Punjab Finance Minister has criticized the Union government's response as inadequate, calling for more substantial support.
What steps are being taken to assess the damage?
The state government is actively assessing the damage and has allocated funds for relief efforts.
