23 districts of Punjab are reeling under heavy rains and floods, which are being described as the worst disaster in the last four decades. More than 30 people have died and millions have been displaced, while more than 1,400 villages are under water. The overflowing of the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers and the release of water from dams have compounded the devastation. Rahul Gandhi has demanded an immediate relief package from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while the army, NDRF, and local administration are busy with relief operations. Flood devastation Incessant rains that began on August 31 have turned Punjab into a flood-ridden swamp. 12 districts, including Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Kapurthala, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur, are the worst-hit, where more than 3.5 lakh people have been affected. The water of the Sutlej and Ravi rivers is flowing above the danger mark, while the Bhakhra and Pong dams are full. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called it the “worst disaster in recent history” and said: “We are making every effort to rehabilitate our people.” In Ferozepur, the army and locals are repairing the embankments of the Habib Dam, while in Ajnala, Amritsar, Roads are submerged. More than 7,100 people are taking shelter in over 129 relief camps, but millions are living in tractor-trolleys to protect their lands and livestock. The loss of livestock and 1.5 lakh acres of agricultural land have left farmers in dire straits. Political and global response Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote on X: ‘Floods have caused widespread devastation in Punjab. Modi ji, announce an immediate relief package.’ Chief Minister Mann has demanded the release of funds worth Rs 60,000 crore from the Prime Minister. The Punjab Police DGP has announced to donate one day’s salary of all IPS officers to the relief fund. Global organizations like Khalsa Aid have started relief activities in Ferozepur, Kapurthala, and Gurdaspur. Challenges and Future The floods have caused severe damage to infrastructure, schools, and homes. Experts say that climate change has increased the intensity of rains, which has increased the risk of such disasters in the future. Relief teams are facing difficulties due to poor communication systems and flooded roads. The Chief Minister said Announced immediate relief and rehabilitation plans for the victims. "Our people are not alone in this calamity. We will all come out of this crisis together." — Bhagwant Mann References India Today, "The Hindu, Indian Express, Free Press Journal, Times of India, X-Post