Ludhiana records 79.4 mm rainfall in 24 hours, Punjab Agricultural University issues advisory to farmers

Ludhiana has been drenched by continuous rainfall over the past 24 hours, recording 79.4 mm of precipitation, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of more heavy showers in the coming days.

This brings the total rainfall for August to 170 mm, surpassing the figures recorded in previous years—160.6 mm in 2024, 79.6 mm in 2023, and 53.4 mm in 2022.

While the rain has brought relief from the heat, it has disrupted daily life across the city. Several schools shifted to online classes, citing waterlogged roads and safety concerns for students.

“We didn’t want children to wade through flooded streets,” said the principal of a school in Sarabha Nagar.

“Online classes are a temporary solution until conditions improve,” she added.

Meanwhile, farmers are facing a different challenge. Experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have issued an urgent advisory, asking cultivators to prevent water stagnation in fields, especially in paddy-growing areas.

“Standing water can damage root systems and increase the risk of fungal infections,” said Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education at PAU.

“Farmers must ensure proper drainage and avoid letting water accumulate for more than 24 hours.”

Gurdip Singh, chief agriculture officer, said a survey is being conducted today to assess any potential crop damage in the district.

Despite the weather, some residents welcomed the change. Manoj Kumar, a local shopkeeper, said, “It’s been raining non-stop, but the air feels cleaner and cooler. We just hope low-lying areas don’t get flooded.”

But for Sukhdev Singh, a commuter from Doraha, the situation was frustrating.

“I was stuck for over an hour near Chandigarh Road. Water was knee-deep in places. It’s difficult to move around, but we’re used to it now,” he said.

Authorities have advised residents to stay updated with weather alerts as more rain is expected in the coming week.