Punjab Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal stated today that the state is fully equipped to handle any potential flood situation. With continuous rainfall in the hilly regions, district-level control rooms are up and running to provide emergency support.
He emphasized that the state government has put strong flood control measures in place, along with detailed preparedness plans. All necessary infrastructure and response systems have been activated to address any possible flood scenarios across Punjab.
Minister Barinder mentioned that control rooms are functioning across all districts, with emergency teams on standby and real-time monitoring of rivers and drainage systems ongoing in high-risk flood zones. Advanced forecasting tools and early warning systems have been implemented to ensure timely action. These district control rooms are being managed by Junior Engineers to ensure quick and effective coordination during any flood emergency.
Providing details, he listed active control room contact numbers for all districts, including Ropar (01881-221157), Gurdaspur (01874-266376, 18001801852), Pathankot (01862-346944), Amritsar (01832-229125), and many others, ensuring the public can access help quickly if needed.
On the status of water reservoirs, he said that current water levels remain under control: Bhakra Dam is at 1637.40 feet (maximum: 1680 ft), Pong Dam at 1373.08 feet (maximum: 1390 ft), and Ranjit Sagar Dam at 1694.64 feet (maximum: 1731.55 ft).
The Water Resources Department has undertaken large-scale flood mitigation efforts. These include desilting and clearing 4,766 km of drains, reinforcing embankments, arranging 8.76 lakh sandbags (with 3.24 lakh already filled and positioned), and using GIS mapping for efficient deployment in case of emergencies.
As part of the emergency strategy, round-the-clock monitoring is being done in vulnerable areas. Officials from the Water Resources Department are providing daily reports to headquarters, and evacuation plans have been activated in sensitive zones. Deputy Commissioners and officials from other relevant departments are on 24×7 alert, with close coordination between the Water Resources Department, Revenue Department, Police, and disaster response units.
Minister Barinder urged residents living near riverbanks or low-lying areas to stay alert during periods of heavy rain. He advised them to contact the nearest control room in case of emergencies, comply with evacuation instructions, and avoid entering waterlogged areas.
Minister Barinder reassured the public that Punjab is fully prepared to face any flood situation. Through proactive flood management and rapid emergency responses, the state aims to safeguard lives and minimize damage to property.