Punjab CM sanctions ₹130 cr for flood protection measures

Chairing a meeting of the State Flood Control Board through video conferencing, Capt Amarinder Singh ordered the placing of ₹10 crore at the disposal of DCs of flood-prone districts to deal with any situation arising due to heavy rain/floods.

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday sanctioned ₹130 crore for execution of flood protection works across the state and directed the irrigation and revenue departments to ensure their completion before the onset of monsoon.

During the floods that rocked the state in 2019, extensive damage was caused to infrastructure and lives. The picture shows the scenario outside the house of judge in Bathinda on July 16, 2019. (HT file)

Chairing a meeting of the State Flood Control Board through video conferencing, Captain Amarinder Singh ordered the placing of ₹10 crore at the disposal of the deputy commissioners of flood-prone districts to deal with any emergent situation arising due to heavy rain/floods. The CM directed DCs of flood-prone districts to prioritise their tasks and submit the list of projects requiring immediate attention to the finance department for sanction of funds.

He also directed the DCs to undertake de-silting and cleaning of drains in consultation with the water resources department. Reviewing the status of reservoirs and dams, the CM expressed concern over existing low levels of water, which he said was the lowest in the past 40 years. Chief secretary Vini Mahajan underscored the need to carry out the necessary works with a holistic approach.