Punjab Govt's timely investment saves Ropar from floods: Harjot Bains

The Punjab Government's investment of Rs 15 crore in creating embankments along the Sutlej and its tributaries in Ropar district has paid off, saving the region from severe flooding this monsoon season. This was stated by Minister for Education Harjot Singh Bains while interacting with the public under the 'Sada MLA Sade Vich' programme organised by the AAP party.

Bains said that for the past many years, dozens of villages near Bhakra Dam in Anandpur Sahib constituency of district Ropar used to be severely affected during monsoon rains. However, this time, the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid special attention to flood-prevention by constructing embankments and strengthening the corners of villages located along the Sutlej.

The water level of Bhakra Dam was expected to reach 1,673 feet, but due to timely preventive measures, it remained at 1,672.62 feet. For the first time in 30 years, despite repeated heavy inflow in the Swan river, the villages in Ropar district have not suffered any major damage.

Bains highlighted that new embankments worth Rs 4 crore were constructed at Harsa Bela village, which was a crucial step in preventing damage. He personally inspected the embankment and considered people's suggestions. The cleaning of seasonal rivulets such as Dasgarai, Bhalan and Nakkiyan, as well as the removal of blockages in drains and culverts, ensured the safety of the region even during heavy rainfall.

The Swan river broke a 30-35 year record this time, but the region has remained safe so far.

Bains credited the timely investment and preventive measures for the region's safety, stating that only a few spurs in Harsa Bela village were damaged, which were repaired overnight by the administration.