Community spirit: Flood-hit Baupur Mand fights back, strengthens breached bundhs

The temporary embankment in Baupur Mand, which collapsed during the floods in August, has been rebuilt thanks to the collective efforts of local residents, volunteers and youth from across Punjab.

The breach, which occurred on the night of August 10, had allowed waters from the Beas River to inundate the area, causing significant damage.

District authorities have been intensifying relief and rehabilitation efforts. Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Panchal stated that health and animal husbandry teams are actively working in flood-affected villages to provide essential support.

Health workers have been distributing medicines to prevent waterborne diseases and spreading awareness about hygiene. ASHA workers launched a door-to-door campaign from September 20 to 26 to conduct health surveys and educate residents on preventive care.

Animal husbandry teams have been conducting livestock health checks, vaccinations, and distributing fodder. In Ahli Kalan village alone, 170 bags of feed were distributed to farmers, while veterinary doctors treated several seriously ill buffaloes, saving their lives.

With the combined efforts of the community, administrative support, and the resilience of Punjab’s youth, Baupur Mand is gradually recovering from the devastating floods.

Human interference with nature causes floods, says Seechewal

Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal has attributed the recent devastating floods in Punjab and other northern states to human interference with nature. Speaking at an event in Sirsa to mark the birth anniversary of Bhai Ghaniya Ji, he warned that continuous heavy rainfall, exacerbated by climate change, is causing widespread destruction.

"Global climate changes are proving dangerous for the planet. Without reducing global warming, we cannot control climate change," Sant Seechewal stated. He called for large-scale tree plantation and proper care of forests as crucial steps toward environmental restoration.

Sant Seechewal also praised Bhai Gurvinder Singh for developing a half-acre forest in Sirsa, which has become a nesting ground for birds. "Planting more trees will naturally bring back species that have vanished," he added.

The event was attended by dignitaries including Satguru Uday Singh, head of the Namdhari sect, and the former Governor of Odisha, among other prominent personalities. Sant Seechewal and other notable attendees were honoured by the institution for their contributions to society and the environment.