Punjab CM orders time-bound flood protection works before monsoon

The article detailing CM Bhagwant Mann’s directives on flood protection and water management ahead of the monsoon was published.

The regulator at Simbli for releasing 200 cusecs of water into Chitti Bein (Garhshankar) should be made operational. The issue of culverts constructed on Jalandhar National Highway 44 obstructing water flow should be resolved at the earliest through technical correction. Additionally, 100 cusecs of water from Bist Doab Canal (Ropar) should be released to reduce pollution in Kala Sanghian drain.

Mann emphasised desilting of Gidderpindi Railway Bridge (Ferozepur) and other flood-prone places should be done at the earliest to avert flood-like situations. He noted that the Buddha Nullah has been cleaned up to the starting point of Ludhiana city and cleaning beyond this point is ongoing. He called for checking cow dung waste from dairies entering the Buddha Nullah and directed the municipal corporation to ensure proper lifting of cow dung, with dairy owners cooperating.

During a high-level review meeting, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directed deputy commissioners to complete all flood protection works within a deadline, warning officers of personal accountability for lapses. He called for desilting of drains and vulnerable points, fast-tracking anti-pollution measures, and pushing pending infrastructure projects. He said plans for drains and rivers should be prepared in sync with irrigation department engineers to ensure regular desilting, cleaning and strengthening of flood protection works. He was accompanied by Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal.