Directs timely completion of projects before monsoon; also stresses zero tolerance for lapses
Jalandhar News (April 29): Punjab Mines and Geology, Conservation of Lands, Water and Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal on Wednesday reviewed flood protection works in Gidderpindi and Mandala Channa villages situated along the banks of the Sutlej river, reiterating the state government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property during flood-like situations.
Inspecting progress of ongoing projects, the Cabinet Minister noted that both villages had suffered land erosion during previous floods. He said that the Punjab Government has initiated strengthening works at these vulnerable points to prevent recurrence of such incidents during the upcoming monsoon season.
The Minister informed that as many as 132 vulnerable points along the rivers of the state have been identified and all are being strengthened on a war footing. He added that the Gidderpindi bundh has been widened to 22 feet from its earlier width of 6–7 feet, while an amount of Rs.16 crore is being spent on strengthening works at Mandala Channa and Gidderpindi. He emphasized that all these projects will be completed before the monsoon. He also said that he has been visiting entire state to oversee the strengthening works along side river Satluj and expressed satisfaction over the preparedness. Tuesday he visited flood prone areas in Amritsar District and today he visited areas in Gudderpindi and Mandala Channa.
During his visit, Mr. Goyal inspected the ongoing desilting work under the Gidderpindi railway bridge and directed officials to ensure thorough cleaning of the channel for smooth flow of river water during heavy rains. He also reviewed the construction of an extension bundh to reinforce the existing embankment.
Later, the Minister visited flood-prone areas in Mandala Channa and instructed officials to expedite ongoing works.
Reaffirming the government’s proactive approach, he said no stone would be left unturned to protect residents from flood-related risks.
Meanwhile, Sarpanch and other prominent people in village Mandala Channa thanked the Minister for these path-breaking initiative in flood sensitive villages
They mentioned that such proactive measures were never taken by previous governments and termed these projects by Punjab Government a benchmark in mitigating flood threat in these areas.
