Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab Govt steps up flood preparedness: CM Mann approves purchase of Advanced Amphibious machines
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 27, 2026:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday reviewed the state’s flood preparedness and approved the procurement of advanced amphibious machines to strengthen flood prevention and relief operations ahead of the monsoon season.
Chairing a high-level meeting, the Chief Minister said the initiative aims to ensure swift, efficient and proactive flood management across the state. “In order to carry out flood relief measures in a smooth and hassle-free manner, consent has been given to purchase amphibious machines for effective desilting of rivers and drains,” he stated.
Highlighting the utility of the equipment, CM Mann said the multipurpose amphibious machines are capable of operating in running water and can perform deep desilting. He noted that these machines would play a crucial role in both preventive maintenance and emergency response during floods. “Acquiring these machines is the need of the hour for carrying out flood relief operations in anticipation as well as during emergencies,” he added, directing officials to prepare a detailed procurement blueprint.
Referring to global best practices, the Chief Minister said he had observed the use of such machines during his recent visit to Finland. “These machines are effectively used there for cleaning and maintenance of rivers, drains, ponds and other water bodies, apart from flood protection works,” he said, adding that their induction in Punjab would significantly reduce damage caused by floods.
The Chief Minister also reviewed water management in the state, noting that the maximum water level of the Bhakra Dam stood at 1594 feet on April 26 against a capacity of 1680 feet.
He stressed the need for careful planning of water release ahead of the monsoon and the upcoming paddy sowing season beginning June 1.
“By May 31, ongoing work on new and revived watercourses will be completed, after which an additional 5000 cusecs of water will be required for irrigation,” he said.
Reviewing flood mitigation works, CM Mann expressed satisfaction over the progress of desilting and drain-cleaning operations across Punjab, stating that these efforts are being carried out in the larger public interest. He added that major flood-prone areas have already undergone desilting to reduce risk during heavy rains.
Focusing on vulnerable regions, the Chief Minister highlighted preventive measures in Ropar district, where nearly 20 villages are flood-prone.
He said the government has initiated construction of stud and spur structures to strengthen riverbanks and reduce flood impact. He also directed officials to examine the feasibility of channelising the Swaan river for irrigation and tourism development.
Cabinet Ministers Harjot Singh Bains and Barinder Kumar Goel, Lok Sabha MP Malwinder Singh Kang, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, and senior officials were present during the review meeting.