Chandigarh, April 18
The Punjab Cabinet on Friday approved a citizen-focused policy that permits landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, seasonal streams, and drains at their own cost, while allowing them to use the excavated material free of charge, with the objective of strengthening flood preparedness ahead of the monsoon.
According to an official statement issued after the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the policy will apply to key water bodies, including the Sutlej, Beas, and Siswan. It enables concerned landowners to independently carry out desilting and use the excavated material. “The cabinet has approved a policy for permitting concerned landowners to undertake desilting of rivers, canals, and drains, including the river Sutlej, Beas, and Siswan at their own cost, and to utilize the excavated material free of cost for their own use,” the statement said.
The government said the initiative is aimed at accelerating desilting in critical stretches, improving water flow, and enhancing the carrying capacity of rivers and seasonal streams. These measures are expected to significantly reduce the risk of floods and help safeguard both public and private property.
Officials have identified nine critical sites where desilting is required to ensure the smooth flow of water ahead of the monsoon season. The statement noted that failure to undertake desilting at these locations could lead to silt accumulation, reduced flow capacity, and a higher risk of flooding during heavy rains.
To ensure timely action and address delays at certain sites, the cabinet decided to allow landowners to take up desilting work themselves. The provision to use excavated material at no cost is also intended to prevent waste and encourage participation. The policy is expected to strengthen flood control measures across Punjab while promoting community involvement in maintaining water channels as the state prepares for the upcoming monsoon season.
