Kaithal DC reviews flood situation in vulnerable villages along Ghaggar

With the water level of the Ghaggar River currently flowing below the danger mark, Kaithal Deputy Commissioner Preeti on Tuesday conducted an extensive tour of villages located across the river in the Guhla-Cheeka region to review preparations and interact with residents.

As per the data, at 4 pm the water level of Ghaggar was recorded at 21.7 ft, below the danger mark, which is 23 ft. While the situation remains under control, the DC carried out precautionary visits to assess conditions on the ground. She met residents, listened to their concerns and directed Subdivisional Magistrate (SDM), Guhla, to coordinate with officials from Punjab’s Patiala district for a joint survey of the border villages.

During her visit, DC Preeti inspected villages, including Sihali, Rattakhera, Arnauli, Paprala, Manjhedi, Maigda and Budhanpur, which are prone to road blockages during floods as rising waters often submerge connecting routes, cutting off links with the sub-divisional and district headquarters. She instructed Irrigation Department officials to draw up a detailed contingency plan to ensure timely relief and assistance in case of emergencies.

At Sihali village, locals submitted a memorandum demanding repair of embankments on the Punjab side of the Ghaggar. Responding to this, the DC directed the SDM to coordinate with the Patiala authorities to resolve the issue.

Earlier in the day, the DC visited the Hansi-Butana link canal, where a breach had occurred in 2023. She walked nearly 5 km with officials to inspect the vulnerable point. The Irrigation Department was instructed to strengthen the site with soil-filled bags and other protective measures well in time. The SDM was asked to monitor the work closely and ensure round-the-clock vigilance.

After the field inspection, DC Preeti chaired a review meeting at the PWD Rest House in Guhla. Officials from health, animal husbandry, irrigation, police, SDRF, revenue, panchayat, and other field departments attended. The DC emphasised the importance of coordination among departments and directed village-level staff, to remain in their respective areas and keep the administration updated with the real-time information.