Hoshiarpur, September 10 — When floodwaters engulfed large parts of Hoshiarpur, it was not only the administration and NGOs that rushed to help. Youth clubs across the district stepped forward as first responders, carrying out rescue and relief operations that residents describe as heroic.
From Mukerian to Tanda and surrounding villages, young volunteers worked day and night to evacuate families trapped in submerged homes, rescue livestock, and provide essential supplies to those sheltering in relief camps. Their efforts extended beyond food and water distribution — they also sourced diesel to power tractors and generators used in rescue operations and to restore electricity in relief shelters.
“The actual work on the ground is done by these youth, who do not hesitate to put their own safety at risk to help others,” said Preet Kohli, Assistant Director of Youth Services in Hoshiarpur. “These youth clubs exemplify selfless service and show how the youth can bring positive change when united and guided in the right direction. Their dedication reminds us of the power of community and the strength of humanity, even in the face of adversity.”
The volunteers did not limit their compassion to people alone. With cattle and livestock stranded alongside villagers, youth clubs made special arrangements for fodder, ensuring animals too were not left to suffer. According to residents, volunteers waded through knee-deep water, drove tractors across flooded roads, and carried rations on their shoulders to deliver food to families cut off by rising waters.
Among the most active groups were the Youth Services Clubs of Dandoh, Janauri, Maili, Bhikhowal, Usman Shaheed, Narain Garh, Banta Singh Colony, and Dasmesh Youth Services Club in Bhatian. Together, they distributed dry rations, drinking water, and other necessities to displaced households.
Locals say their courage has filled the gap where official resources could not immediately reach. “We were stranded for hours, but it was the young boys from the local youth club who brought us food and helped us to safer ground,” said Gurpreet Kaur, a resident of Tanda village.
Despite the risks, volunteers pressed on with their work, often in hazardous conditions. Many of them navigated flooded roads without protective gear, relying only on tractors and makeshift boats to ferry people to safety. Residents say these youth showed extraordinary resilience, placing the welfare of their community above their own safety.
As waters now begin to recede, their contribution remains a source of hope and inspiration. “These young people have shown us that compassion and unity can overcome even the toughest challenges,” Kohli noted.
The floods caused widespread destruction in Hoshiarpur, but the work of local youth has softened the blow for hundreds of families. Their selfless commitment, locals say, will be remembered long after the waters are gone.
