The recent devastating floods in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir have prompted widespread concern and calls for support, including from actress Hina Khan. The heavy monsoon rains have caused immense destruction, with overflowing rivers, landslides, and flash floods impacting thousands of lives across the region.
The Situation on the Ground
Punjab is facing what is being described as its worst flood crisis in nearly four decades, with over 1,900 villages affected. More than 4 lakh acres of farmland have been inundated, causing significant damage to crops. The death toll in the state has risen to 43, and approximately 21,000 people have been evacuated to safer locations. The districts of Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Kapurthala, and Fazilka are among the worst hit.
Himachal Pradesh has also suffered extensive damage, with initial estimates of losses to public property reaching nearly ₹3,800 crore. As many as 355 people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents, and 49 are still missing. Over 5,200 houses have been damaged, with more than 1,000 completely destroyed. Key infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water supply, has been severely disrupted.
In Jammu and Kashmir, floodwaters entered several urban areas after the Jhelum River breached an embankment, leading to the evacuation of around 9,000 people. In the Ramban district, 283 houses were damaged and 950 people were evacuated due to heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides. The pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi has been suspended for the 11th consecutive day following a landslide on August 26 that claimed 34 lives.
Relief and Rescue Efforts
Authorities, including the Indian Army, BSF, NDRF, and state police, are working to evacuate stranded individuals and strengthen river embankments. The Army constructed a makeshift wooden footbridge in less than 18 hours to reconnect villages near Bhaderwah in J&K that were cut off by cloudbursts and flash floods. In Punjab, about 21,000 people have been moved to safer places. The Srinagar police have evacuated 200 families from flood-affected areas and formed quick reaction teams to assist citizens. Rescue centers have been set up in various locations to provide shelter to those displaced.
Government Response
The Punjab government has declared the state disaster-hit and is conducting damage assessments to provide compensation for flood-related losses. The Union Agriculture Minister has assured support to Punjab, with central teams assessing the total loss. Aam Aadmi Party Members of Parliament have pledged to use their MPLADS funds for flood relief works. The Union Science Minister stated that the India Meteorological Department (IMD) would install four additional radars in J&K for more accurate weather forecasts and early warnings. An inter-ministerial team has been dispatched by the central government to assess the damage in Jammu and Kashmir.
Hina Khan's Appeal
Amidst this crisis, Hina Khan has urged everyone to pray for the flood victims in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and J&K. Her appeal reflects a broader sentiment of solidarity and concern for those affected by the natural disaster.
The situation remains critical, with overflowing rivers and the risk of further rainfall. The combined efforts of government agencies, rescue teams, and public support are crucial to mitigate the impact of the floods and provide relief to those in need.
