The North News
New Delhi, September 5
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Friday said that illegal mining was among the major reasons behind the devastation caused by recent floods in Punjab.
In a social media post, Chouhan recalled that embankments along the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi and Ghaggar rivers were strengthened during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and then Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal. However, he said, years of unchecked mining had weakened these protective structures, allowing floodwaters to breach villages.
Chouhan, who toured Punjab on the instructions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said Modi was “extremely concerned” about the scale of the disaster. He added that he would submit a detailed report to the prime minister and assured that the Centre “stands firmly with the people and farmers of Punjab in this hour of crisis.”
The minister called for a comprehensive recovery plan, covering immediate relief, medium-term rehabilitation and long-term rebuilding of affected areas. He also warned of potential health risks once the floodwaters recede, urging authorities to dispose of animal carcasses safely and clear silt from fields to protect the next crop cycle.
Praising community efforts, Chouhan noted that thousands of social workers in Punjab had mobilised tractors carrying food, clothes and medicines, with support also arriving from neighbouring states. “I salute this spirit of service. Serving afflicted humanity is the worship of God,” he said, adding that unity and resilience would help Punjab overcome the crisis.
