Sri Amritsar Sahib (Dawarka Nath Rana): Aam Aadmi Party’s Chief Spokesperson, MLA, and former Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal conducted an extensive inspection of the Ajnala Flood Prevention Measures being implemented along the international Ravi River ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
Dhaliwal visited several border villages, including Ghonewala, Singhoke, Nisoke, Kamalpur, Darya Mansoor, Chaharpur, Shahpur, and Ball Labhe. During the visit, he inspected vulnerable sections of the Dhussi Bundh along with senior officials from the Punjab Drainage Department.
Focus on Vulnerable Embankment Areas
The inspection team included Superintending Engineer Mahesh Singh and other senior departmental officers. Together, they reviewed ongoing strengthening work at critical locations along the embankment.
Furthermore, officials assessed flood protection arrangements and examined areas that remain vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall. The visit formed part of the government’s broader Ajnala Flood Prevention Measures strategy.
₹40 Crore Spent on Strengthening Bundh
Speaking to the media, Dhaliwal recalled the severe flooding witnessed in the Ravi River during last year’s monsoon season. As a result of those floods, 23 breaches occurred in the Dhussi Bundh across the Ajnala region.
Consequently, the Punjab Government spent nearly ₹40 crore on restoration and strengthening work. Authorities used stone pitching and other engineering measures to reinforce damaged sections of the embankment.
Moreover, work continues at several sensitive locations. Therefore, Dhaliwal instructed officials to complete all remaining projects before June 30.
Drain Cleaning Ordered Before Monsoon
Dhaliwal also directed the concerned departments to accelerate drain-cleaning operations in vulnerable areas. Additionally, he stressed the importance of clearing blocked channels before the arrival of heavy rains.
According to officials, timely maintenance of drains and embankments can significantly reduce flood risks. Therefore, the government aims to complete all preventive measures well before the monsoon season begins.
Punjab Spending ₹600 Crore on Flood Safety
Highlighting the state government’s commitment, Dhaliwal stated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is spending approximately ₹600 crore on flood prevention and river safety projects.
Furthermore, the government is strengthening relief infrastructure and improving drainage systems across Punjab. These investments form a key part of the state’s disaster preparedness plan.
Advanced Machines to Strengthen Flood Response
Dhaliwal also revealed that Punjab plans to procure advanced amphibious machines from Finland. These specialized machines can operate both on land and in water.
Moreover, the equipment can perform deep cleaning of canals and drains, even in flowing water conditions. As a result, these machines will play a vital role in preventive maintenance and emergency flood response operations.
Officials believe the advanced technology will improve the state’s ability to tackle flood-related challenges. Consequently, Punjab aims to enhance preparedness and minimize damage during extreme weather events.
The ongoing Ajnala Flood Prevention Measures reflect the government’s proactive approach to protecting border villages, strengthening embankments, and ensuring public safety ahead of the monsoon season.
Key Points of the news:
- Dhaliwal reviews flood preparedness: MLA and former minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal inspected flood prevention arrangements along the Ravi River in Ajnala ahead of the monsoon season.
- Sensitive embankment areas inspected: Dhaliwal, along with senior Drainage Department officials, reviewed vulnerable stretches of the Dhussi Bundh in several border villages, including Ghonewala, Singhoke, Nisoke, Kamalpur, Darya Mansoor, Chaharpur, Shahpur, and Ball Labhe.
- ₹40 crore spent on repairs: The Punjab Government has spent around ₹40 crore to strengthen 23 breach points that developed in the Dhussi Bundh during last year’s devastating floods.
- Deadline fixed before monsoon: Officials received directions to complete all pending strengthening work and drain cleaning operations by June 30 to ensure better flood protection.
- Punjab investing ₹600 crore in flood safety: Dhaliwal said the Punjab Government is spending ₹600 crore on flood prevention measures and plans to purchase advanced amphibious machines from Finland for canal, drain cleaning, and emergency flood relief operations.
