Punjab Gears Up for Monsoon: Chief Secretary Directs Statewide Preparedness

On the directions of Sh. Bhagwant Singh Mann, Chief Minister, Punjab, Sh. Anurag Verma, Chief Secretary held a Video conference with all the Deputy Commissioners of the State and directed them to be on their toes during the monsoon season so that the public does not face any inconvenience. Principal Secretary, Water Resources informed that as on date the level of Bhakra Dam is 1590 ft. this is 8 ft lower than the level last year. Similarly, Pong Dam is 30 ft lower and Ranjit Sagar Dam is 34 ft lower than last year.

Mr. Verma stated that this year flood protection works amounting to Rs. 252 crores were being done which was almost 1.5 times the average work taken up during the last two years. Mr. Verma directed the Deputy Commissioners to again visit the vulnerable spots in their Districts and ensure that the flood protection works have been satisfactorily completed there. He directed the Deputy Commissioners to remain in touch with the local population in the villages near the vulnerable points during the entire monsoon season.

Mr. Verma directed the Deputy Commissioners to recheck that the cleaning of the sewerage system had been done in the cities. They were directed to ensure Genset along with de-watering pumps. Deputy Commissioners were also directed to make arrangements of Generators at Water pumping stations. They were also directed to review the electricity arrangements with PSPCL authorities so that there is minimum disruption of electricity during rains.

Principal Secretary, Water Resources Krishan Kumar informed that about 8.5 lakh EC bags have been procured and made available close to the vulnerable points in the various Districts. Deputy Commissioners informed that they are ready with the evacuation plans to be executed in the case of emergency. Flood Control Rooms have been established in all the Districts. Shelters have been identified for humans and animals in case of emergency.

Mr. Verma said that the entire state machinery will work day and night to ensure that the public does not face any inconvenience due to floods.