• Source:JND
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Punjab Floods: The devastating floods in Punjab have now claimed more than 40 lives, as it’s a grim reminder of the scale of destruction this natural disaster has unleashed across the state. Beyond the tragic loss of life, entire communities have been left reeling homes submerged, families displaced, and farmlands destroyed. Over 1.76 lakh hectares of crops have been ravaged by the floodwaters, putting immense strain on Punjab’s agrarian backbone.

Authorities have described this as the worst flooding Punjab has seen in 40 years, and the numbers back that up. So far, 48 deaths have been confirmed in what officials are calling the most severe natural disaster in recent decade, according to News18. Floodwaters have reached 1,900 villages across all 23 districts, leaving widespread devastation in their wake.

In a show of solidarity, neighbouring states have stepped in to offer support. Haryana has sent 15 truckloads of relief material from Panchkula, organized by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. Just days earlier, Saini had also announced a monetary relief of Rs 5 crore to assist Punjab in managing the disaster and recovery efforts.

Despite the ongoing crisis, some aspects of daily life are set to resume. As per a statement from Education Minister Harjot Bains, schools, colleges, and universities in Punjab will begin reopening from today, September 8. However, the decision to reopen schools in areas still affected by the flooding will rest with the respective deputy commissioners.

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Punjab Floods: PM Modi to Visit Flood-Hit Punjab on September 9

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the flood-affected regions of Punjab on September 9, as confirmed by BJP state unit chief Sunil Jakhar. During his visit, the Prime Minister will assess the on-ground situation and review the ongoing relief and recovery operations.

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Punjab Floods: Punjab Schools To Reopen From Sept 8

While private schools are resuming today, government schools will reopen from September 9.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Bains stated,"On September 8, all government schools in the state will remain closed for students. Teachers will be present in schools and cleanliness drives will be carried out with the assistance of panchayats, municipal councils and corporations."

He further added, “Teachers will conduct a thorough inspection of the school buildings. If any problem or defect is found, it must be immediately reported to the deputy commissioner and the engineering department of the district."

Punjab Floods: Relief Efforts Continue Across Punjab

Relief and rescue efforts are still in full swing, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army, Border Security Force (BSF), Punjab Police, and local district authorities working around the clock to provide aid to those stranded or displaced.

According to officials cited by PTI, there’s been a slight reprieve in water levels. The Pong Dam, for instance, saw a drop of nearly two feet in water level, reaching 1,392.20 feet as of Sunday evening. However, that’s still about two feet above its upper permissible limit of 1,390 feet indicating continued risk and the need for caution.