Worst Floods in Decades Hit Punjab, 3.5 Lakh People Affected

Punjab is experiencing its worst flood crisis in decades, with 23 districts, 1,400 villages, and 3.5 lakh people affected. Farmland, homes, and crops are submerged, and rescue, relief, and community aid efforts are underway. The state is grappling with the aftermath of the floods, which have had a significant impact on the local population.

Punjab is currently experiencing its most severe flood crisis in decades, with 23 districts, 1,400 villages, and 3.5 lakh people affected. The floods, which have resulted in 29 deaths and three missing persons, have caused extensive damage to farmland, homes, and crops. Rescue, relief, and community aid efforts are underway to mitigate the impact on the local population.

The state has been hit by heavy monsoon rains, with rainfall recorded at 74% above normal in August, the highest in 25 years [2]. This, coupled with excess water release from dams such as Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar, has led to the overflow of major rivers like Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi. The resultant flooding has submerged over 3 lakh acres of farmland, causing massive damage to paddy and other crops. Approximately 2.56 lakh people have been affected, with thousands displaced to relief camps.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of all help and support needed to manage the crisis [1]. Rescue and relief efforts are being conducted with the assistance of the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and the Border Security Force (BSF). The state has set up 129 relief camps and ordered the closure of schools and colleges till September 3. However, the sheer scale of the damage has put enormous pressure on resources, and the assessment of livestock loss and major infrastructure damage is yet to be completed.

The economic impact of the floods is significant. Farmers’ bodies have demanded immediate compensation for crop losses, as the damage threatens the Kharif season and food security. The initial financial loss is estimated at Rs 1,320.6 crore, with Rs 605.4 crore in agriculture, Rs 173.1 crore for roads and bridges, and Rs 159.4 crore for water projects [2]. The state has not received a dedicated flood relief package from the Centre, except for Rs 218 crore released under the National Disaster Relief Fund.

The recurring floods in Punjab can be attributed to a combination of factors, including high dependence on rivers, climate change, poor drainage, and sudden water release from dams. The state's flat topography and encroachments on natural drains exacerbate waterlogging, while the lack of a crop insurance system further worsens the economic condition of farmers [2].

The current crisis underscores the need for long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of floods in Punjab. This includes investments in infrastructure, better drainage systems, and climate change adaptation measures. The financial community should closely monitor the situation and be prepared to support relief and rehabilitation efforts.

References:
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/pm-modi-speaks-to-punjab-cm-mann-over-heavy-rains-and-flood-crisis-125090101452_1.html
[2] https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/rain-timeline-punjabs-most-devastating-floods-since-1955-10227347/