Harbhajan Singh Leads from the Front in Punjab Flood Relief
Former India spinner and Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh has stepped up in a big way to support his flood-hit home state, Punjab. As the state grapples with one of its worst floods in decades, Singh has provided 11 steamer boats and three ambulances to aid ongoing rescue and relief operations.
Eight of the boats were sanctioned through his MPLAD fund, while three were personally funded by the cricketer-turned-politician. Each boat, valued at around ₹4.5 to ₹5.5 lakh, is being deployed in waterlogged districts to rescue stranded residents.
In addition, Singh has mobilized financial support through his personal network. A sports organization donated ₹30 lakh, while two close associates contributed ₹12 lakh and ₹6 lakh respectively. So far, around ₹50 lakh has been raised and directed toward food, medicines, and other essentials for affected families.
Punjab Faces Worst Flood in Decades
The state of Punjab is currently witnessing large-scale devastation due to heavy monsoon rains and overflowing rivers, including the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi. Triggered by torrential rainfall in catchment areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, the swelling rivers have submerged villages and farmlands.
Authorities have confirmed that at least 46 people have lost their lives, while more than 1.75 lakh hectares of farmland have been damaged. Crops worth crores have been destroyed, adding to the economic burden of local farmers.
Although the water level in the Pong Dam fell slightly to 1,394.19 feet on Saturday, it still remains four feet above the danger mark of 1,390 feet, leaving officials worried about further flooding risks.
Rescue and relief operations are being carried out on a war footing by the NDRF, Army, BSF, Punjab Police, and district authorities. Steamer boats and ambulances, such as those provided by Harbhajan Singh, have become crucial for moving stranded residents and transporting patients to hospitals.
A Politician with a Cricketer’s Spirit
Since being elected to the Rajya Sabha as a representative of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Harbhajan Singh has remained engaged in social initiatives. However, this latest contribution highlights his determination to stand with people during crises.
“I wanted to make sure immediate resources reach those on the ground. Boats and ambulances are lifelines during such disasters,” Singh reportedly said while confirming his contributions.
Beyond financial and logistical support, Singh has also been urging others in his network to contribute. “Every rupee counts in such a situation. Punjab needs us all,” he told supporters, as donations poured in.
This is not the first time Singh has extended help in times of need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was active in supporting medical aid and relief measures. His current initiative, however, is being hailed as one of the most significant interventions by a public figure in Punjab’s ongoing crisis.
Broader Relief Efforts Continue
Alongside Singh’s contributions, state and central authorities continue to coordinate relief efforts. Government shelters have been set up for displaced families, while medical teams are treating flood-related illnesses. Volunteer groups are distributing food packets, drinking water, and hygiene kits.
Experts warn that even after floodwaters recede, Punjab will face challenges such as disease outbreaks, housing rehabilitation, and crop compensation. Singh has promised to remain engaged, noting that the focus should extend beyond immediate rescue to long-term rehabilitation.
“I will keep helping in whatever way possible. The people of Punjab deserve full support until normalcy returns,” Singh said.