Punjab Govt Promises Swift Relief
Chandigarh — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that all flood victims in the state will receive compensation within 45 days. Chairing a high-level meeting at his residence, Mann said the government has finalised necessary arrangements to deliver financial aid directly and quickly.
The Chief Minister assured farmers that they will receive the highest compensation ever announced in Punjab’s history — ₹20,000 per acre for crop damage. Mann said past governments delayed compensation for years, forcing farmers to chase officials, but his administration would ensure fast delivery of relief.
“As a son of a farmer, I know the pain of losing crops. Until every farmer is compensated, I will not sleep peacefully,” he added.
Special Girdawari to Begin Immediately
Mann ordered that special “Girdawari” (crop loss assessment) will begin on September 13. Officers from unaffected districts will be deployed in flood-hit villages to ensure faster surveys. They will inspect each field, verify damages, and prepare reports.
Farmers will have one week to raise objections if discrepancies are found. Once verified, cheques will be distributed within the 45-day timeline. For villages where entire crops are destroyed, compensation will be released within one month.
“This honest government is determined to complete the process in record time. Earlier, it used to take a year or more. Now, cheques will reach farmers in 30 to 45 days,” Mann said.
Relief for Homes and Livestock
The government also extended compensation to families who lost homes or livestock. Fully collapsed houses will be compensated with ₹1,20,000, while partially damaged homes will receive ₹40,000. This is a significant increase compared to earlier relief of just ₹6,800 for partial damage.
For livestock losses, the government has fixed rates:
- ₹37,500 for a cow or buffalo
- ₹4,000 for a goat
- Compensation for bulls, horses, poultry, and fisheries as per rules
Mann confirmed that compensation for homes and livestock will begin on September 15 and finish within 45 days.
Monitoring and Accountability
The Chief Minister said the entire relief process will be monitored daily under his supervision. Officers who delay or misuse authority will face strict action.
He also acknowledged the human toll of the floods, which claimed 55 lives. So far, cheques have been issued to 42 bereaved families. “We cannot bring back loved ones, but we can reduce families’ financial stress by providing immediate support,” Mann said.
Infrastructure and Health Measures
Mann directed Deputy Commissioners to clear grain markets (mandis) by September 16 to prepare for procurement season. He also instructed officials to repair roads, restore electricity, and expedite infrastructure works in affected areas.
On the health front, the government will set up medical camps in every village, conduct fogging to prevent disease outbreaks, and test water supplies. Private doctors will also be invited to assist in providing care.
Demand for National Disaster Status
Mann said the state will urge the Union Government to declare Punjab a “Severe Natural Disaster-affected State.” This classification would allow Punjab to secure additional central funds for recovery.
Cabinet Minister Hardeep Singh Mundian, Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, and Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Verma also attended the meeting, reflecting the government’s high-level coordination efforts.