National/ Punjab Desk
2 September
Sandeep Dhand Journalist
Punjab is once again facing the threat of floods as heavy rainfall has increased the water levels in major rivers. The Ghaggar and Sutlej rivers have sounded the alarm, bringing nearly a dozen districts under the grip of flood-like conditions. While the Ravi River continues to remain low, the Ghaggar is overflowing due to continuous rain. Hundreds of villages located near the Ghaggar have been put on high alert. Officials fear that the next ten days could bring a dangerous rise in water levels.
In an emergency meeting held today, the Punjab government directed the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) not to release more water from the Bhakra Dam into the Sutlej River. The state also agreed to reduce the release of water from the Pong Dam into the Beas River. To ensure safety, the government has announced the closure of all schools, colleges, universities, and polytechnic institutes across Punjab until September 3.
At Khanauri, the Ghaggar’s water has reached close to the danger mark. Meanwhile, the state government has begun preparing a memorandum for the central government to seek financial assistance. Departments have been asked to compile reports of damage to life, property, and infrastructure caused by the floods. A central team may soon visit the affected regions after the report is submitted.