Punjab Fully Prepared to Tackle Flood Emergencies, Says Water Resources Minister Barinder Goyal
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 7, 2025 – Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Monday asserted that the state government has put in place foolproof arrangements to effectively manage any potential flood-like situation during the ongoing monsoon season.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, Goyal said the Bhagwant Mann-led government has prioritized flood preparedness by completing key mitigation projects and strengthening the state’s emergency response capacity.
He informed that over ₹230 crore has been spent on flood prevention measures, including the desilting and cleaning of rivers, drains, and choes spanning 4,766 km. A total of 599 flood-control projects have been executed under the State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF), MGNREGA, and departmental machinery.
To reinforce embankments and ensure swift action in case of a breach, the department has procured 7.79 lakh sandbags—4 lakh of which have already been filled and distributed across all districts. For the first time, jumbo bags have also been introduced to fill breaches quickly and effectively.
Goyal highlighted the construction of 1,044 check dams and 3,957 soak pits as additional measures. Around 53,400 bamboo plantations and 294 km of vetiver grass have also been planted along vulnerable banks to naturally reduce erosion and improve slope stability.
“Learning from the challenges faced in 2023, the state government has upgraded its preparedness plans and infrastructure. Our control rooms are fully operational, and emergency teams equipped with machinery and materials are ready in flood-prone zones,” Goyal said.
The Minister emphasized the need for heightened vigilance in low-lying areas and directed officials to maintain real-time monitoring of river and drain water levels.
Principal Secretary Krishan Kumar informed the meeting that weekly reviews with district and circle officers are underway to track progress on both completed and ongoing works.
Appreciating the efforts of the Water Resources Department staff, Goyal urged them to continue their dedicated service during the critical monsoon period.
Chief Engineer (Drainage-cum-Mining) Hardeep Singh Mendiratta and other senior officials were also present at the meeting.