Relief Operations Intensify in Flood-Affected Villages
Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur and Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna on Sunday reached the flood-affected villages of Teja Ruhela and Chakk Ruhela in Fazilka district. The leaders distributed relief material, including ration kits and cattle feed, to families affected by rising waters.
Dr. Kaur informed villagers that nearly 1.7 lakh cusecs of water had been released from Harike Headworks due to heavy rainfall in the hills. The water is expected to enter Fazilka through the Sutlej Creek, raising water levels further. She appealed to residents to shift women, children, and elderly people to safer places at the earliest.
The minister stressed that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed all departments to work on a war footing. “Our priority is to protect lives and ensure no family goes without food, shelter, or medical care,” she said.
Relief Camps and Medical Support Set Up
According to Dr. Kaur, relief camps have been established across flood-hit areas of Fazilka. Teams from Health, Animal Husbandry, Water Supply and Sanitation, and Revenue Departments are on the ground providing assistance. Special care facilities have been arranged for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
The minister said the government is also making provisions for livestock, which remain a major source of livelihood for rural families. “Cattle feed and green fodder are being distributed on priority so that farmers do not face double losses,” she said.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Kaur chaired a review meeting with senior officers at the District Administrative Complex. She directed them to stay vigilant and work round the clock to respond to emergencies.
MLA Sawna Reassures Flood Victims
Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna reiterated that the Punjab government is fully committed to supporting affected communities. He said essential supplies are being delivered to villages on priority and urged residents to reach out without hesitation.
“The District Flood Control Room is active and can be contacted anytime at 01638-262153. Every request for help will be addressed promptly,” he said.
Sawna assured villagers that both human and livestock needs are being considered. “Our teams are ensuring food packets, drinking water, cattle feed, and medicines reach every household in need,” he added.
Officials on Ground Supervise Operations
Several senior district officers accompanied the ministers during their visit. Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Dr. Mandeep Kaur, SDM Virpal Kaur, DSP Avinash Chander, and Tehsildar Jaspreet Singh were present.
The officials briefed the ministers about real-time challenges in the villages and ongoing coordination with rescue teams. The administration has been instructed to keep boats, vehicles, and medical units ready to respond quickly to new emergencies.
Government Promises Continued Support
Both leaders assured villagers that no effort will be spared in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. They urged citizens to follow administration advisories, avoid rumor-mongering, and cooperate with officials during evacuation and relief efforts.
“The Punjab government under CM Bhagwant Singh Mann is standing firmly with every family affected by the floods. Together, we will overcome this crisis,” Dr. Kaur said.