Centre Accused of Neglecting Punjab in Flood Crisis
Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal has strongly criticized the Union Government and neighbouring states for failing to support Punjab during its worsening flood crisis. Speaking to the media after reviewing relief operations at Kawaan Wali Pattan in Fazilka on Thursday, Goyal said the state that feeds the nation has been abandoned in its hour of need.
He argued that only months ago, Punjab’s share of water was diverted by overlooking existing laws and regulations. “Now, when Punjab is suffering, no one is stepping forward to help,” he said. The minister demanded that the Centre must announce a special relief package for Punjab without waiting for a formal request.
Goyal emphasized that states benefiting from Punjab’s water resources also bear a moral responsibility to extend help during this crisis.
Punjab Government Intensifies Relief Operations
The minister noted that heavy rainfall in both Punjab and the hills had worsened this year’s flood situation. However, he assured that the state government is leaving no stone unturned to provide relief.
“Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and his Cabinet colleagues are personally visiting flood-hit regions to oversee efforts,” Goyal said. He added that the Chief Minister has even deployed his personal helicopter to support relief operations.
The state government has already ordered a special girdawari (crop damage assessment) to ensure compensation for affected farmers. Relief centres have been set up, evacuees are being shifted to shelters, and food, water, and medical aid are being provided.
Goyal praised the spirit of Punjabis who are extending mutual support during these challenging times, especially to address the shortage of fodder and straw for livestock.
Army, NDRF Join Relief in Fazilka
The Cabinet Minister confirmed that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army are assisting district authorities in Fazilka. Over 100 people were evacuated by boats on Thursday alone. Seven relief camps are currently functional in the district.
“Water inflow into the dams has reduced, which comes as a relief,” Goyal said in response to queries.
This was Goyal’s second visit to Fazilka in five days, underlining the seriousness of the crisis. He personally reviewed arrangements alongside officials including MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu, SSP Gurmeet Singh, and other senior officers.
Call for National Support
The minister’s remarks highlight Punjab’s growing frustration with the Centre’s response. While the state has mobilized resources and sought community support, it continues to demand urgent financial and logistical assistance from the central government.
As Punjab struggles with floods that have damaged homes, crops, and livestock, the demand for a dedicated relief package is expected to dominate political discourse in the coming weeks.