Punjab is grappling with its most severe flooding in decades, as overflowing rivers and incessant rainfall have led to widespread devastation and a rising death toll. As of September 8, 2025, the death count has reached 51, with fears it may climb further as rescue operations continue.
The floods have impacted nearly 4 lakh people across the state, with over 2,000 villages affected. Approximately 22,938 people have been evacuated from the worst-hit areas and are being accommodated in 219 relief camps set up by the state government. The districts of Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Ferozepur, and Fazilka are among the most severely affected, with thousands of residents displaced and seeking shelter.
The crisis has not only claimed lives but has also inflicted significant damage on agriculture, the backbone of Punjab's economy. Standing crops on over 1.76 lakh hectares of land have been submerged, causing immense losses to farmers who were weeks away from harvesting their paddy crop. The estimated financial losses are pegged at over ₹13,000 crore. In response, the Punjab government has announced a compensation of ₹20,000 per acre for affected farmers.
The Indian Army, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Border Security Force (BSF), and state police, are conducting extensive rescue and relief operations. The Army has deployed 48 rescue columns in Punjab, rescuing over 10,000 civilians, providing medical assistance to 4,700 people, and delivering 12,500 kg of essential supplies. Khalsa Aid, a non-profit organization, has also been actively involved in relief efforts, providing food, water, medical assistance, and de-watering services in affected districts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Punjab on September 9 to assess the flood situation. The state government has requested a relief package of ₹20,000 crore from the central government to aid in the recovery and rehabilitation efforts. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh for the families of those who have lost their lives in the floods.
Experts point to a combination of factors contributing to the severity of the floods, including heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, blocked drainage systems, encroachments on natural water channels, and unregulated construction activities. Climate change and inconsistent rainfall patterns have also been cited as contributing factors.
Despite the grim situation, the spirit of the people of Punjab remains unbroken. Women across the flood-hit districts are playing a crucial role in relief efforts, from reinforcing embankments to setting up community kitchens and providing essential supplies. The state government has ordered schools to reopen from Tuesday, September 9, after inspection, signaling a gradual return to normalcy. The situation remains critical, and long-term measures are needed to mitigate the impact of future floods and protect the lives and livelihoods of the people of Punjab.
