CM reviews flood situation with top officials
Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday chaired a high-level review meeting via video conference from his Chandigarh residence. The meeting included Deputy Commissioners from all districts, the Chief Secretary, and senior officials from multiple departments.
The focus was on assessing the current flood situation and ensuring a swift response to assist affected families. The Chief Minister directed officials to begin a special girdawari (crop loss assessment) from September 13, with a strict deadline of 45 days for completion.
Compensation process to be fast-tracked
During the meeting, Mann emphasized that compensation must reach every eligible farmer without delay. Officers were instructed to conduct village-to-village visits, inspect fields, and prepare accurate reports.
He announced that financial aid will not be limited to crop damage alone. Families who lost houses, livestock, or other property due to flooding will also be compensated. “In this hour of grief, your son stands with you. Everyone will get their due compensation as soon as possible,” Mann assured.
Farmers’ losses to be addressed fairly
The CM highlighted that Punjab’s agrarian economy depends heavily on timely relief measures. By initiating this special girdawari, the government aims to ensure transparency and fairness in disbursal.
Officials were also told to maintain direct communication with village residents. This step, Mann said, would help prevent discrepancies in surveys and ensure accountability.
Punjab government’s disaster response
Floods have repeatedly disrupted agriculture across Punjab in recent years, damaging paddy fields and rural infrastructure. The state government has been working to enhance its disaster response mechanism.
By fixing a 45-day timeline, the CM has sought to build confidence among farmers who have long demanded quicker relief. Compensation checks will be distributed immediately after the completion of surveys, officials confirmed.
Mann also urged departments to coordinate closely and avoid bureaucratic delays. “Our priority is to stand by our people and help them rebuild their lives,” he said.