Can Prime Minister Modi Provide a Special Package for Flood-Impacted Punjab?

Chandigarh, Sep 1 (NationPress) The President of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Sukhbir Badal, has made a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the release of a special financial package aimed at aiding Punjab in the wake of devastating floods. He also urged for an increase in the deployment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army personnel, and essential equipment to optimize flood-relief efforts.

Badal's appeal came after a thorough 10-day visit to the flood-stricken regions across multiple districts, including some remote villages near the International Border with Pakistan.

In his correspondence to the Prime Minister, Badal presented a detailed account of the devastation, revealing that millions of acres of agricultural land have been submerged, resulting in significant damage to thousands of homes, roads, and power infrastructure.

Stressing the urgent need to assist the state’s farmers, Badal stated that they require immediate financial support to recover from crop losses and the loss of livestock.

He further requested the deployment of specialized central teams to address escalating health concerns arising from the prolonged flooding.

In his letter, Badal pointed out that farmers should be granted a respite from loan repayments, suggesting that this situation warrants a complete waiver of farmers' loans to help them regain their footing.

While emphasizing the vast scale of relief required, Badal noted that the state government has struggled to meet the needs of those affected by the floods, indicating significant gaps in ongoing relief and rescue operations in Punjab.

“There is also the pressing issue of providing interim compensation to the flood-affected individuals and implementing measures for their rehabilitation,” he remarked.

Additionally, he called for the announcement of a special package aimed at implementing preventive measures against future floods, which have not occurred on this scale for over 40 years.

“Unfortunately, flood protection initiatives have been neglected for several years, exacerbating the hardships faced by the populace. Allocating special funds for flood protection measures along major rivers and constructing durable bundhs where necessary is crucial,” the former Deputy Chief Minister urged the Prime Minister.

Badal also highlighted the plight of thousands who have been forced to leave their homes or are trapped on rooftops due to relentless rains. He mentioned that both people and livestock are in dire need of shelter, food, water, and fodder.

He expressed that this suffering has been intensified by the apparent abandonment of the populace by the elected state government, leaving them to confront this tragic crisis alone.

In stark contrast, Badal praised the people of Punjab for their resilience in the face of this “manmade” disaster, maintaining their spirit even in such challenging circumstances.

“I commend the courageous individuals of the state who put service before self, stepping up to aid those affected. Punjabis have always been the first to respond to national calls, whether it involves securing our borders or ensuring food security,” he said.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the Akali Dal members who lent support during this crisis, as well as the role of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) in organizing food and medical assistance.