Punjab begins major post-flood sanitation campaign
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced the launch of a massive cleanliness drive in 2,300 flood-affected villages across the state. The government has earmarked ₹100 crore for the initiative, aimed at restoring normalcy and preventing the spread of disease after weeks of heavy flooding.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mann said that while floodwater has receded from many regions, a significant layer of silt and debris remains across towns and villages. The government’s priority, he noted, is to safeguard public health and revive rural life as quickly as possible.
NGOs and youth urged to join state-led efforts
The chief minister appealed to non-governmental organisations, youth clubs, and community bodies to actively participate in the campaign. According to him, the drive is not just about physical cleaning but also about protecting public health in vulnerable areas.
He stressed that stagnant silt, dirt, and waterlogging could become breeding grounds for infections. Therefore, the campaign will combine cleanliness with comprehensive medical support to ensure no major outbreak occurs in the aftermath of the floods.
Medical camps in all flood-hit villages
Mann confirmed that medical camps will be established in all 2,303 flood-affected villages. The state plans to use existing Aam Aadmi Clinics in 596 villages for this purpose, while temporary camps will be set up in the remaining 1,707 villages.
These camps will operate in community spaces such as schools, anganwadi centres, dharamshalas, and panchayat buildings. Each will be staffed with doctors, paramedics, and volunteers to provide immediate healthcare.
The government has also arranged 550 ambulances for the campaign, ensuring that residents receive medical services without delays. “Our priority is that no one should face health-related hardships during this recovery phase,” Mann said.
Focus on public health and disease prevention
Experts have repeatedly warned that post-flood situations pose serious health risks, particularly waterborne diseases like diarrhoea, jaundice, and malaria. Punjab’s strategy combines sanitation with medical preparedness to prevent any outbreak.
The chief minister emphasised that villagers should report symptoms early and make use of the government’s medical services. He reiterated that medicines, clean drinking water, and sanitation facilities would be made available during the campaign.