Punjab’s Water Resources Minister, Barinder Kumar Goyal, on Monday informed the legislative assembly that water levels in the state’s reservoirs are stable, and there is currently no flood-like situation. He emphasized that the state government has taken comprehensive steps to address any potential emergencies.
The statement came in response to a call attention motion by MLA Rana Inder Pratap Singh, who voiced concerns about a growing flood threat. Speaking during Zero Hour, Singh highlighted that over the past six months, he identified 12 to 15 critical points between Harike and Dhilwan where embankments are dangerously weak and vulnerable to breaches due to rising water levels in the dams’ reservoirs.
Singh informed the House that these weak spots were shared with the concerned deputy commissioners and cabinet minister, along with several follow-up reminders. However, he claimed that no substantial action has been taken, even in areas that require immediate reinforcement.
In reply, Minister Goyal said the Water Resources Department has implemented several measures to ensure flood preparedness. “The government has allocated ₹204.5 crore for flood mitigation efforts. Using funds from SDMF, MGNREGA, and departmental budgets, 599 projects have been initiated,” he noted.
Singh also pointed out an incident from the previous flood season, where a 125-acre embankment near the Goindwal bridge obstructed the natural flow of water, causing pressure to build up at a single point and increasing the risk of a breach. He urged the government to carry out de-silting in the area to avoid recurrence.
Additionally, he raised concerns over illegal mining in embankment zones, particularly in areas where temporary structures have been erected by local residents.
