Kapurthala administration issues health advisory, steps up flood relief measures

With large parts of Kapurthala district grappling with the impact of rising waters from the Beas river, the civil and police administration has intensified relief, safety and public health measures to protect residents in flood-affected villages.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Amit Kumar Panchal has issued a detailed health advisory urging people to remain vigilant about hygiene and safety during the ongoing crisis. Emphasising the high risk of infection and disease associated with floodwaters, Panchal advised residents to avoid wading through stagnant water without protective boots and to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and clean water before eating. He stressed the importance of cooking all food under hygienic conditions and ensuring it is properly covered.

To prevent the spread of waterborne illnesses, the Deputy Commissioner urged the public to consume only boiled or chlorinated water. Where boiling is not feasible, chlorine tablets should be used. Residents have also been advised to store drinking water only in clean containers and to use ladles instead of dipping hands directly into vessels.

The advisory also addressed the heightened risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria in the aftermath of floods. Families were encouraged to use mosquito nets—particularly for children and pregnant women—and to wear full-sleeved clothing. Panchal directed that regular fogging and anti-larval spraying be conducted in residential areas to control mosquito breeding.

Highlighting the increased danger of snake bites during floods, the administration advised residents not to walk barefoot in stagnant water, bushes, or pits. People were further instructed not to allow garbage to accumulate around their homes. Panchal also cautioned that wet clothes should be changed immediately to prevent skin infections, and antiseptic creams should be applied in case of rashes or itching.

“In cases of diarrhoea or vomiting, the immediate use of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is essential, and timely treatment must be sought at the nearest health centre,” the Deputy Commissioner said, adding, “Maintaining hygiene and following preventive measures is crucial to protect families from waterborne and vector-borne diseases during floods.”

Parallel to the health advisory, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kapurthala, Gaurav Toora, visited the severely affected Mand area, where he interacted directly with residents of village Ahli Kalan. Reviewing the ground situation caused by the swelling Beas river, Toora assured villagers that the Punjab Police is committed to providing all possible assistance. He instructed police teams to enhance security arrangements in the flood-hit belt, intensify patrolling, and ensure timely help to those in need. “Law and order will not be compromised even in these testing times,” Toora emphasised during his visit.

To strengthen communication and relief coordination, the district administration has opened an additional flood control room. Residents can now reach out via the new helpline number 62800-49331, while the existing control room number 01822-231990 will continue to operate.

The joint efforts of the civil and police administration underscore the district’s commitment to both immediate relief and long-term preventive action. With the situation continuing to evolve, officials have urged residents to follow advisories and use the helplines for quick assistance.

Flood prep drill held in Mundi Kalu village

A flood preparedness drill was conducted today in Mundi Kalu village, located in the Lohian block of the Shahkot Subdivision, as part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents amid rising flood concerns.

Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Shahkot, Shubhi Angra, who has been actively monitoring the situation, has been visiting villages daily. Today, she inspected the Dhussi Bandh and reviewed the preparedness measures in place. SDM Angra emphasised that the safety of every resident remains a top priority for the administration.

“All the relief material has been provided to us. The entire staff is performing very well, and medical kits are being distributed,” she stated during her visit.

She added that the district administration is maintaining round-the-clock surveillance in flood-prone areas along the Sutlej River and is fully prepared to handle any situation arising from potential flooding. For public convenience, a district-level flood control room has been set up, and every complaint is being addressed promptly, the SDM said.

The drill involved coordination among various departments to simulate emergency response strategies and ensure the stockpiling of essential supplies. Local authorities also reassured villagers of timely evacuation and support if needed. “The district administration continues to remain on high alert,” she added. The ongoing visits and supervision by SDM Angra have brought a sense of reassurance to the affected regions.