PM Modi to Visit Flood-Hit Punjab Tomorrow, Review Relief Efforts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Punjab tomorrow to assess the devastating flood situation that has affected over 3.87 lakh people across nearly 2,000 villages.

The visit, aimed at evaluating ground realities and ensuring maximum assistance, comes as the northern Indian state grapples with one of its worst flood crises in decades, triggered by swollen Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers.

The Punjab government has reported damages worth Rs 13,289 crore, with 4.3 lakh acres of crops destroyed and significant losses to livestock and homes.

Robust security arrangements have been put in place for the Prime Minister’s visit, particularly in the flood hit districts of Gurdaspur, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran.

Learning from a 2022 security lapse when Modi’s convoy was stranded on a flyover in Ferozepur due to protests, the Punjab Police, in coordination with the Special Protection Group (SPG) and central agencies, have made meticulous planning.

Sources confirm that the Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) has overseen route clearances, with contingency plans to avoid disruptions. Security has been heightened following past criticisms, with Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar assuring that the state is prepared to facilitate a smooth visit. Jakhar emphasised that Modi is “deeply concerned” about the flood situation and is closely monitoring developments.

Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) president Aman Arora, while welcoming the Prime Minister, urged him to announce a Rs 20,000 crore relief package and release Rs 60,000 crore in pending dues, including GST compensation and Rural Development Fund.

Addressing the media, Arora expressed hope that Modi’s visit would not be reduced to “disaster tourism,” referencing union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s recent visit, which he criticized as a “photo-op” with no relief announced.

“We welcome the PM with folded hands, but he must stand with Punjab in this crisis,” Arora said, highlighting the state’s dire need for funds to address crop losses and silt deposition hindering future farming.

The Centre has already deployed two inter-ministerial teams to assess damages, with reports expected soon. Army, BSF, NDRF, and MY Bharat volunteers are actively engaged in relief efforts. Modi’s visit, which includes a review meeting in Amritsar, is expected to bring significant relief measures for Punjab’s flood-affected residents.