Rain Fury: Severe flooding in Jalandhar and Sultanpur Lodhi as Sutlej river breaches submerge 50 villages

Jalandhar, July 13: The breach in the Sutlej River has resulted in the flooding of approximately 50 villages, with 36 villages in Jalandhar and 14 in Sultanpur Lodhi severely affected. On Monday night, a 100-foot breach occurred in Phillaur, followed by two additional breaches at Mandala Channa and Gatta Mundi Kasu villages. Consequently, vast areas in Gidderpindi, Shahkot, and Lohian in Jalandhar have been submerged under water.

MP Balbir Singh Seechewal expressed concern over the intensity of water flow, stating that it surpasses that of the 2019 floods. He highlighted Gidderpindi as the lowest point where water is accumulating but unable to move further due to silt deposited under the bridge girders. This issue was also encountered during the previous flooding in 2019.

The Jalandhar-Gidderpindi highway is surrounded by water, extending to the narrow Gidderpindi dhussi bundh, which serves as the lifeline for the 50 affected villages requiring rescue and relief operations. Village volunteers have been mobilised to address breaches across the main highway to Gidderpindi.

MP Seechewal expressed disappointment at witnessing a recurrence of flooding despite assurances that a situation like 2019 would be avoided. Efforts are underway to plug the breaches with the help of volunteers. The situation in Gidderpindi is particularly critical due to its low elevation and the lack of proper desilting of bridge girders.

Authorities remain hopeful that the water will recede soon. Minister Balkar Singh assured that the administration is making every possible effort to address the breaches and alleviate the impact of the floods.

Also Read: Punjab flood situation eases; water level in dams below danger mark: CM Mann

- With inputs from agencies

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