Punjab Constitutes Expert Committee for Flood Control Measures
Chandigarh: Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal has directed the formation of a specialized committee to visit other states and study cost-effective flood protection models suited to Punjab’s unique topography. The decision aims to improve the state’s flood preparedness through innovative and economical solutions.
Chairing a high-level meeting at the Irrigation Department’s Committee Room, the Minister emphasized that comparative technical studies from other states could help Punjab adopt efficient and practical flood management strategies. He instructed officials to complete all flood protection and desilting projects before the arrival of the next monsoon season.
Focus on Baupur Island and Waterlogged Areas
During the meeting, the Minister addressed the recurring flood situation in Baupur Island, expressing concern over the severe impact on residents. He ordered the department to develop a permanent technical solution to provide long-term relief from the annual flooding.
Additionally, the Minister reviewed ongoing water management initiatives and directed officials to prepare long-term strategies to tackle persistent waterlogging issues in various districts. These efforts, he said, must ensure sustainable flood mitigation and improved drainage efficiency across the state.
Mr. Goyal reiterated that flood protection work should not face delays, emphasizing that tendering, monitoring, and field execution must proceed with utmost diligence. “All protection measures should be completed well before the monsoon season begins,” he said, stressing accountability and coordination among the executing teams.
Early Desilting and Encroachment Removal Ordered
Highlighting the importance of early desilting, the Water Resources Minister instructed that desilting activities commence early to maintain the natural flow of rivers and drainage channels. He also ordered the removal of plantations and obstructions from river courses to prevent blockages that could worsen flood situations.
Officials informed the Minister that notices had been issued to individuals responsible for encroachments along riverbanks and drainage lines, ensuring compliance with waterway protection norms. The Minister insisted that field inspections should continue regularly to verify on-ground progress.
Mr. Goyal noted that starting desilting early would help enhance the capacity of rivers and drains, reducing the likelihood of overflow and damage during peak rainfall. “Preventive measures taken now will save both time and resources during emergencies,” he added.
Appreciation for Breach Repair Works
The Minister also reviewed the breach repair works carried out after recent floods. He appreciated the swift and coordinated efforts of field officers and district administrations who worked tirelessly to repair damaged embankments and restore normalcy in affected regions.
He commended the Water Resources Department for its efficient response and commitment during the flood crisis, noting that such efforts were critical for minimizing loss of life and property.
During the meeting, Principal Secretary Krishan Kumar, Chief Engineer (Drainage) Hardeep Singh Mendiratta, Chief Engineer (Designs) Vijay Kumar Garg, and several senior officials were present.
A Step Toward Sustainable Water Management
The new committee’s formation signals Punjab’s proactive approach toward tackling recurrent floods through scientific and evidence-based interventions. By drawing insights from other states, the government aims to develop innovative, low-cost flood control systems that align with Punjab’s geographical and agricultural needs.
Officials believe the comparative study model will allow Punjab to adopt successful flood management frameworks, including river training techniques, embankment strengthening, and real-time monitoring systems.
Mr. Goyal reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that flood prevention, desilting, and water management works are completed ahead of schedule. “Punjab must learn from the best practices across India to safeguard its people and farmlands,” he said.