PM Modi to visit flood-hit Punjab on September 9, review relief measures

Punjab has witnessed one of its worst floods in decades, as the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers, along with several seasonal rivulets, have swollen due to heavy rains across north India.

The Centre has assured the state that it “will not be left alone in this crisis” and is working on short, medium, and long-term plans to help farmers recover.

During his visit, the Prime Minister is expected to focus on urgent issues, including the removal of silt from agricultural fields, preventing disease outbreaks, and ensuring the safe disposal of dead animals once floodwaters recede.

North India is grappling with severe flooding, particularly in Punjab, due to unprecedented monsoon rains.

Rivers such as the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi have breached their banks, inundating over 1,900 villages and causing extensive damage.

As of Sunday, at least 46 fatalities have been reported in Punjab alone.

Local authorities and organizations are carrying out relief operations, with the Punjab government initiating a special damage assessment (girdawari) and providing compensation to affected farmers.

Additionally, agencies like the NDRF, Army, and BSF have conducted evacuations, and NGOs are distributing essentials such as food, water, and medical supplies

Health authorities are also on alert, with a statewide campaign launched to combat vector-borne diseases and manage risks from snake and dog bites. The campaign includes cleanliness drives and intensified medical outreach in affected areas.