Fazilka-Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal strongly criticized the Union Government and neighbouring states for their indifference towards Punjab’s plight amid devastating floods. Speaking after reviewing flood relief operations at Kawaan Wali Pattan in Fazilka, Goyal stated that just months ago, water from Punjab was diverted without regard for rules, yet now in Punjab’s moment of crisis, help is lacking.
Goyal stressed that as the nation’s food bowl, Punjab deserves immediate and unconditional support through a special relief package from the Centre. He called on states benefiting from Punjab’s water resources to come forward in this hour of need.
The Minister noted that heavy rains in the hills and Punjab have worsened flooding this year but assured that the state government is leaving no stone unturned. All departments are actively engaged on the ground, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Cabinet colleagues, and MLAs personally supervising relief efforts. CM Mann’s helicopter is also deployed for operations, and orders for a special girdawari have been issued to ensure compensation for damages.
Relief centres are functioning, evacuees are being relocated to safer shelters, and essentials such as food, water, and medical facilities are being provided. Goyal applauded Punjabis for mutual support during these difficult times, especially addressing fodder shortages for livestock.
Besides NDRF teams, the Army is assisting district administration, with over 100 people evacuated by boat today. Seven relief camps are operational in Fazilka, and water inflow into dams has reduced, offering some relief.
This marks Goyal’s second visit to Fazilka district in five days to personally oversee flood relief operations. Officials present included Fazilka MLA Narinder Pal Singh Sawna, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu, SSP Gurmeet Singh, SDM Veerpal Kaur, Assistant Commissioner General Amandeep Singh Mavi, and Executive Engineer Water Resources Alok Chaudhary.