Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Thursday said the state is fully prepared to handle any flood-like situation arising from recent heavy rainfall in the hilly regions. He stated that district-level control rooms are fully operational and accessible for emergency assistance.
She emphasized that the state government has implemented robust flood mitigation measures and comprehensive preparedness protocols. Flood defence infrastructure and emergency response mechanisms have been fully mobilized across Punjab.
He informed that control rooms are active throughout the state, with emergency response teams on high alert and real-time monitoring of rivers and drainage systems underway in vulnerable flood zones.
Advanced flood forecasting systems and early warning mechanisms have also been deployed to ensure a swift and coordinated response. District-level control rooms are operating under the supervision of Junior Engineers to ensure immediate flood response coordination.
He further noted that the Water Resources Department has undertaken extensive flood mitigation efforts, including desilting and cleaning of 4,766 kilometers of drains and watercourses, reinforcement of embankments, and procurement of 8.76 lakh sandbags.
Of these, 3.24 lakh sandbags have already been filled and strategically positioned, with GIS mapping in place to enable rapid deployment during emergencies.
The emergency response protocol includes 24×7 surveillance at vulnerable points, continuous monitoring by department officials, daily situation reporting to headquarters, and activation of emergency evacuation plans in flood-prone areas.
Deputy Commissioners and concerned officials have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance. The integrated flood management strategy involves coordinated efforts among the Water Resources Department, Revenue Department, Police, and disaster management agencies.
The Minister urged residents in flood-prone areas and near riverbanks to stay alert during heavy rainfall, avoid venturing into waterlogged areas, follow evacuation advisories promptly, and contact the nearest control room in case of emergency.
He reassured that Punjab’s flood preparedness and emergency response systems are fully capable of managing any potential flooding and minimizing risk to life and property through proactive planning and rapid action.