Rain ravages Punjab, Haryana

Widespread incessant rainfall in various parts of Punjab and Haryana threw normal life out of gear and has resulted in extensive damage to cotton and paddy crop.

Farmers in the two agrarian states have been left at the mercy of the rain Gods. Punjab stares at a flood-like situation with rivers in spate.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday ordered the closure of all schools and colleges on Tuesday while reviewing the flood-like situation triggered in the state due to incessant rain. The Army has been asked to remain on alert to help the state deal with any eventuality arising out of the situation. Chandigarh too received heavy rainfall. Floodgates at the city’s Sukhna lake were opened Monday afternoon to release water.

Captain also announced a special “girdawari” for assessing crop damage due to heavy rain over the past four days. Ministers and MLAs have been asked to tour their respective areas extensively to assess the ground situation and tie up with the departments concerned for immediate redressal of hardship being faced by the people. The BSF and NDRF and other paramilitary forces too have been alerted.

A contingency fund of Rs 7.40 crore has been placed at the disposal of deputy commissioners to get flood protection works executed, besides carrying out rescue operations. Bhakra Beas Management Board Chief D K Sharma apprised the chief minister that the situation at Bhakhra reservoir was under control so far and they were regularly monitoring the water levels at Pong Dam.

Water level at Pong Dam was currently at 1,385.12 feet against the maximum level of 1390 feet, while the level at Bhakhra was at 1,655.49 feet against maximum capacity of 1,680 feet. District administration in catchment areas of three rivers - Satluj, Ravi and Beas - have arranged boats to rescue the affected people.