Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced the launch of Mission Chardi Kala to aid the rehabilitation of people devastated by the recent floods. The mission, symbolizing resilience and optimism even in the toughest times, calls on citizens across Punjab and India to contribute towards rebuilding the state.
Mann urged people to stand with Punjab during this difficult phase, assuring full transparency in the use of every rupee donated. He emphasized that funds will be utilized with honesty to restore lives, schools, farms, and infrastructure washed away in the calamity. More details of the initiative are available at http://rangla.punjab.gov.in.
The CM described the floods as one of the worst tragedies in Punjab’s history, leaving deep scars for generations. Nearly 2,300 villages were submerged, 7 lakh people rendered homeless, and 20 lakh affected. Around 3,200 schools were destroyed, 8,500 km of roads damaged, 2,500 bridges collapsed, and 1,400 clinics and government buildings reduced to rubble. At least 56 lives were lost. Preliminary estimates put the total damage at ₹13,000 crore, though officials warn the figure may rise once ground surveys are completed.
Mann said Punjab is facing one of its toughest tests but expressed faith that the state will overcome it with unity and determination. He praised the bravery of youths who risked their lives to save others and highlighted how gurdwaras, temples, and religious institutions opened their doors to shelter the displaced.
“Now it is time to move beyond relief and focus on rebuilding. Farmers must return to their fields, children must go back to schools, and families must relight their hearths. Together, we will ensure Punjab stands tall again,” the CM said.
