Punjab Minister Decries Union Government’s Role in Unprecedented Flooding

Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal of Punjab has publicly condemned the Union Government for its role in the state’s catastrophic flooding, the worst in 37 years. Speaking at a press conference, Goyal highlighted the Bhakra Beas Management Board’s (BBMB) failure to release water in June, which he believes worsened the disaster. He also criticized the Prime Minister’s lack of acknowledgement or support for the affected state. The Minister expressed concern over Haryana’s actions, alleging that it both offered help while also limiting water flow, increasing the impact on Punjab. Furthermore, Goyal revealed that a private company, Level 19 Biz Private Limited, had incorrectly assessed the Madhopur headworks gates, which failed under pressure, resulting in the death of a government employee. Goyal emphasized the severity of the floods, exceeding even the devastating floods of 1988, due to heavy rainfall and the convergence of water from multiple sources. The state government, under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has been actively involved in rescue and relief efforts, including the evacuation of citizens, the care of livestock, and the establishment of relief camps, he added. He also called for unity among political entities to help with relief efforts.