Chandigarh: Punjab, already grappling with severe floods, now faces the threat of fresh downpours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rain across multiple districts on August 30 and 31, sparking fears that the crisis could deepen further.
Torrential rainfall and water released from the Pong and Bhakra dams have left several regions devastated. Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, and Fazilka are among the worst-hit districts, where villages remain marooned, crops lie submerged, and connectivity has snapped. Rescue teams from the NDRF and SDRF are carrying out non-stop evacuation and relief work.
Experts caution that the upcoming spell of rain could deliver a “double blow.” Rivers already flowing above danger marks may swell further, while saturated soil has little capacity to absorb more water. Officials also warn of additional releases from dams if pressure continues to mount.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has ordered all departments to stay on maximum alert, with relief operations under constant review. As a precautionary step, all schools—government and private—will remain shut across Punjab till August 30.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, stay indoors during heavy rainfall, and strictly avoid venturing near rivers and drains in the coming 48 hours.
