Finance Minister Inspects Ghaggar River at Khanauri, Assures Public of Preparedness
Chandigarh/Khanauri/Moonak, August 31
Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Sunday called on the Union Government to fulfill its responsibility to the people and urge the Haryana government to withdraw the stay on Ghaggar River Widening as this would allow the Punjab government to proceed with widening and strengthening the riverbanks to protect its citizens.
During a site visit to the Khanauri headworks to assess the situation, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema emphasized that widening the Ghaggar river is a crucial step, but this effort has been stalled due to a stay order obtained by the Haryana government from the Supreme Court on a section of the river from Makraur Sahib to Karail within Punjab. He said that the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to finding a permanent solution to the recurring flood threat from the Ghaggar River.
On this occasion, the Finance Minister Cheema reassured the public that there is no need to panic, only to remain vigilant and cooperate with the Punjab government and the district administration. He confirmed that the water level in the Ghaggar River is currently at 743.7 feet, well below the danger mark of 748 feet, and the situation is completely under control.
The minister appealed to the public to support each other during this time. He also urged residents not to believe rumors and to contact their village panchayat or the civil and police administration immediately if they encounter any issues. He affirmed that Punjab government representatives and district officials are present in the field and will ensure no one faces any hardship.
Meanwhile, the Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba mentioned that for any flood-related concerns, people can contact the district flood control rooms at 87250-29785 (Irrigation Department) and 01672-234196 (District Administration). The district administration has implemented extensive preparations to manage any potential flooding. Over 200,000 sand and soil bags have been prepared and are on standby. The vulnerable points where breaches occurred in 2023 have been specifically reinforced, and the riverbanks have been widened to ensure easy movement for machinery if needed.
