Punjab's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Singh Mann, toured the flood-hit regions of Ferozepur by boat to assess the situation. He became visibly emotional after meeting flood victims, expressing his commitment to directly overseeing the relief efforts, ensuring that no stone is left unturned during this challenging time. Chief Minister Mann lauded the resilient spirit of Punjabis, affirming that the state government is united with its people, shoulder to shoulder, in overcoming this adversity.
Reflecting on Punjab's significant contribution to the nation’s grain production, Chief Minister Mann emphasized it was time for the state to receive its deserved recognition. He urged the central government to rethink the compensation criteria and release the pending funds amounting to 60,000 crore rupees for flood victims. The CM highlighted the inadequacy of current compensation schemes for farmers and livestock owners, advocating for increased financial support – 50,000 rupees per acre for crop loss, 8 lakh rupees for fatalities, and raising disability compensations from 1.5 lakh to 5 lakhs.
Floods Striking Over 1,300 Punjab Villages
Punjab is grappling with heavy rains and water released from Himachal Pradesh's dams, causing devastation across 12 districts. More than 1,300 villages are underwater affecting over 250,000 people. Three lakh acres of farmland, particularly rice, have been submerged, severely impacting livestock and the rural economy. Chief Minister Mann expressed that current relief conditions set by the center encumber the relief operations, not fully addressing the real losses faced by farmers.
Chief Minister Mann noted that compared to the rising costs in farming, the per-acre compensation due to this natural calamity falls far short. Witnessing the extensive damage from floodwaters himself, alongside officials, Mann informed the Prime Minister and Home Minister, reaffirming his appeal for Punjab's rightful aid.
Relief and Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Both the central and state governments are fully engaged in the relief mission. Joint efforts by the Army, NDRF, BSF, and Punjab Police have resulted in the rescue of 11,300 individuals, relocating 4,700 to safer areas. In Amritsar, drones distribute relief supplies, while the BSF evacuates villages in Ferozepur. Punjab’s artists are also actively contributing to relief efforts.
Source: aajtak
Sunanda Sharma is distributing relief materials, Gurdas Mann has donated 25 lakh rupees along with medicines worth 5 lakh, and Diljit Dosanjh has adopted ten villages. CM Mann reiterated that the state is meticulously assessing the damages to ensure just compensation for the victims. He praised the tenacity of the Punjabis and pledged ongoing support from the state government during this crisis.
