Chandigarh : Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal has issued urgent directions to expedite the plugging of river breaches across the state. Chairing a high-level meeting in Chandigarh on Thursday, the minister reviewed the on-ground situation and ordered immediate mobilization of all available resources.
Urgent Action on Breaches
According to official updates, Punjab has recorded 44 river breaches in recent weeks due to heavy flows. A significant number have already been plugged, while remaining stretches are being repaired at high speed. Goyal emphasized that the department must be prepared for any future surge in water levels and ensure protective measures are in place without delay.
He warned officials that strict monitoring must continue until all works are complete. “Every breach must be plugged, and vulnerable stretches must be reinforced. Preparedness is the only way to safeguard lives, farmland, and infrastructure,” he said.
Resources Fully Mobilized
The minister assured that funds will not be a constraint for these protective measures. He directed officials to immediately complete the assessment of damages to embankments and departmental properties. This assessment will allow timely restoration of critical infrastructure before the next flood season.
Goyal underlined that all machinery, manpower, and technical resources must be deployed round-the-clock. He stressed that coordination between engineers and local authorities is vital to prevent further damage to agricultural fields and villages along the riverbanks.
High-Level Review Meeting
The urgent meeting was attended by top officials of the Water Resources Department, including Principal Secretary Krishan Kumar, Chief Engineer (Drainage) Hardeep Singh Mendiratta, Chief Engineer (Canals) Sher Singh, Chief Engineer (Headquarters) Jitender Pal Singh, and Chief Engineer (Designs) Vijay Kumar Garg.
During the meeting, officers provided updates on the progress of ongoing works and highlighted the vulnerable areas that require immediate reinforcement. The minister directed them to ensure that critical zones receive top priority.
Government Commitment to Safety
Reiterating the state government’s commitment, Goyal said, “Our priority is the safety of people and protection of agricultural land. The government stands fully prepared to deal with such natural challenges, and no effort will be spared.”
He also emphasized close coordination with district administrations and disaster management teams. This will help ensure quick response in case of fresh inflows or unexpected pressure on embankments.
Looking Ahead
Officials confirmed that restoration work will continue on a war footing until all breaches are secured. Monitoring teams have been deployed at sensitive stretches to ensure early detection of risks. Farmers living near river belts have been assured of full government support in protecting their livelihoods.
The meeting ended with directives for daily reporting of progress and strict accountability. With flood risks still looming, the Water Resources Department has been instructed to remain on alert until conditions fully stabilize.