Government Official Accuses Multiple Parties for Punjab’s Flood Disaster

Barinder Kumar Goyal, Punjab’s Water Resources Minister, pointed the finger at the Union Government, Haryana, and a private contractor for the severe flooding currently affecting the state. Goyal stated that the Union Government’s actions contributed to the crisis, which is the worst in nearly four decades. He criticized the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for not releasing water in a timely manner in June, potentially reducing the flood’s impact. Additionally, he expressed his discontent about the fact that the Prime Minister has remained silent and has not offered any assistance. The Minister also accused Haryana of a dual approach, offering aid while also limiting its water contribution, which he believes put Punjab at greater risk. Moreover, Goyal disclosed that a private firm, Level 19 Biz Private Limited, provided a flawed assessment of the Madhopur headworks gates, leading to their failure and a tragic loss of life. He noted that the floods, exceeding the severity of the 1988 floods, resulted from heavy rainfall and the convergence of water. The government, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has prioritized rescuing residents and livestock, establishing relief camps and providing support.