Massive relief drive underway across Punjab
Chandigarh: The Punjab government has stepped up relief operations in flood-affected districts, ensuring both immediate assistance and preventive health measures. With extensive damage to homes, roads, and farms, officials are prioritizing disease control, connectivity, and direct support to victims.
Education and Information & Public Relations Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated that the government is working on a war footing to support flood-hit families. He confirmed that special girdawari work has been completed in 50% of Rupnagar’s affected areas to assess crop and property losses.
“Fogging machines are being used extensively to prevent malaria and other vector-borne diseases,” Bains said. He added that rural roads have been restored for smooth connectivity, and medical teams are conducting regular health camps. Veterinary officers are also vaccinating livestock and treating animals on the ground.
Ministers lead ground-level relief operations
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh visited several flood-hit villages in Gurdaspur, including Dehriewal Kiran, Ransike Tilla, Khushhalpur, Ratta, and Shahpur Jajan. Along with MLA Gurdeep Singh Randhawa, he distributed financial assistance of Rs. 50,000 each to affected families.
Similarly, Social Security Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur extended relief to residents in Malout. Families whose houses collapsed during heavy rainfall received direct aid. She emphasized her constant presence in affected villages to monitor people’s needs firsthand.
In Patti constituency, Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar distributed food, fodder, and other essentials to families and livestock farmers. At Bhaowal relief camp, he personally interacted with displaced residents.
Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak also distributed relief kits in Sehora village of Bhoa constituency. Each package included folding cots, mattresses, a gas cylinder, and mosquito nets to support families facing harsh conditions.
Situation improves along Ghaggar river
Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal inspected the Ghaggar river near Tohana bridge, accompanied by officials at Makraur Sahib and Moonak. He reported that water levels have started receding after days of concern, providing much-needed relief to nearby residents.
District administrations remain on high alert. Rescue teams are stationed across vulnerable areas, and all departments are working around the clock.
Relief extended to Mohali and Fazilka districts
In Mohali’s Dera Bassi constituency, MLA Kuljit Singh Randhawa distributed relief to 150 affected families in Shri Ram Talai village. Residents received food and essential supplies.
In Fazilka district, MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna reached Mahatam Nagar village to distribute aid. Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu confirmed that 15,070 ration kits and 6,236 cattle feed packets have been handed out to families and livestock owners.
These efforts highlight a coordinated response between state ministers, district officials, and local MLAs to ensure no village is left behind.
Government emphasizes health and safety
The state’s health department continues to focus on preventing post-flood disease outbreaks. Fogging drives, vaccination camps, and regular medical check-ups are being prioritized. At the same time, veterinary support ensures livestock survival, which is crucial for rural livelihoods.
Ministers stressed that relief operations will continue until all families are rehabilitated. The government has urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with health teams.