With the monsoon expected to hit Punjab by the first week of July, district authorities in Sangrur have shifted into high alert mode, launching a robust flood preparedness campaign aimed at protecting lives, farmlands, and infrastructure. Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Rishi, known for his crisis management during last year’s rain-triggered disruptions, has ordered all officials across departments to remain stationed and fully mobilized as a precaution against sudden weather escalations. The scale of readiness underway underscores the government’s intent to minimize disruption and pre-emptively counter the hazards that heavy rains could bring.
At the heart of the operation lies the Ghaggar River, which has historically posed flood risks to Sangrur’s low-lying regions. The bunds lining the river have been fortified as part of a massive earthwork reinforcement drive, with fresh layering and structural consolidation to prevent breaches. Over 50,000 sandbags have been strategically placed along vulnerable stretches, and drainage channels across rural belts have been cleared of debris to ensure the unobstructed flow of rainwater. The Public Works Department and Panchayati Raj bodies have been instructed to report daily progress to a central command unit, which is monitoring developments via drones and geospatial data.
What distinguishes this year’s preparedness is the accountability protocol introduced by DC Rishi. Officers failing to respond to calls during emergencies or absconding from duty during alert phases will face strict disciplinary action. In previous years, delays in field response and lack of coordination had intensified flooding in areas like Bhawanigarh and Dirba. The new system mandates real-time logging of flood alerts, citizen complaints, and rescue operations. Additionally, civil hospitals have been stocked with emergency supplies and medical kits to handle waterborne diseases that typically follow monsoon disruptions.
Local residents, particularly farmers, have expressed cautious optimism. While they welcome the readiness measures, memories of past devastation remain fresh. Last year’s unseasonal rain wiped out crops, damaged kutcha houses, and displaced dozens of families. This time, however, the early warnings, coordination between departments, and improved communication channels offer a buffer against worst-case scenarios. NGOs and disaster relief groups have also stepped in, conducting mock drills and first-aid workshops to prepare local volunteers for emergency roles.
Punjab’s dependence on agriculture, coupled with its history of water mismanagement, makes monsoon months particularly sensitive. The evolving climate patterns and erratic rainfall in recent years have only compounded the state’s vulnerability. With early signs pointing to heavy rainfall this season, Sangrur’s monsoon readiness might serve as a blueprint for other districts in the state.
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