Haryana aids flood-affected Punjab, setting aside water disputes. CM Nayab Singh Saini sends financial aid of ₹5 crore and 700 trucks of relief material.
Punjab Flood: Times of natural disasters reveal true neighbors. While recent floods have deeply wounded both Punjab and Haryana, Haryana has exemplified brotherhood by setting aside water disputes and extending a helping hand to Punjab.
Devastation in Haryana
This time, Haryana experienced 46 percent more rainfall than average. Water from rivers and hilly areas affected approximately five and a half thousand villages. Hundreds of houses were destroyed, and nearly five lakh farmers reported the destruction of 30 lakh acres of crops. The condition of the fields is such that sowing new crops is proving difficult.
Haryana's Support for Punjab
Despite suffering such devastation, Haryana did not limit itself to handling its own issues but took a significant step to help its neighbor, Punjab. The floods in Punjab caused an estimated loss of around ₹13,000 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi provided a relief package of ₹1600 crore, but the state's needs far exceed this amount. Haryana stepping forward at such a time is not only commendable but also serves as an example for the entire nation.
Message of Brotherhood Amidst Water Disputes
Long-standing disputes exist between Haryana and Punjab regarding water, the SYL canal issue, and separate High Courts and capitals. Despite all this, Haryana prioritized helping the people of Punjab by putting aside these disputes. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini clearly communicated in a letter to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann that Haryana stands with Punjab in this hour of crisis.
Relief Material for Financial Assistance
The Haryana government, without being asked, sent financial aid of ₹5 crore to Punjab. In addition, 700 trucks of relief material have so far been delivered to flood-affected districts in Punjab. These trucks contain food supplies, clothing, medicines, tarpaulins, blankets, and daily necessities. BJP leaders and social organizations played a significant role in gathering these materials.
Assistance Also Provided to Himachal and Jammu & Kashmir
Haryana has not only helped Punjab but has also sent financial assistance of ₹5 crore each to Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Chief Minister Saini is continuously visiting districts and reassuring affected people of support. The BJP is celebrating 'Seva Pakhwada' across the country from September 17 to October 2. During this period, priority is being given to both assisting flood victims and conducting cleanliness drives. Motors and pumpsets are being installed to remove waterlogging from villages, so that life can return to normalcy.
