CHANDIGARH, APRIL 26 — Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday issued a directive to all Deputy Commissioners to finalize flood protection infrastructure within strict deadlines, asserting that officials will be held personally accountable for any lapses. During a high-level review meeting attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, the Chief Minister stated that the administration must prioritize the desilting of drains and the reinforcement of vulnerable embankments to prevent monsoon-related damage.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the state is committed to a foolproof master plan, developed in coordination with irrigation department engineers. He mentioned that critical points such as the Gidderpindi Railway Bridge must be addressed immediately to avoid potential flooding. CM Mann declared that his government stands firmly with the public and will ensure that every necessary precaution is taken before the rains arrive.
Regarding environmental concerns, the Chief Minister stated that the cleaning of the Buddha Nullah remains a priority. He noted that while progress has been made up to the Ludhiana city limits, further work is essential. He declared that municipal authorities must strictly manage dairy waste and cow dung to prevent water contamination. Additionally, he affirmed that industrial effluents must be treated properly, with the Pollution Control Board tasked to take action against any negligence.
CM Mann also addressed pending infrastructure, stating that projects like the Hebowal CBG plant and the Dhussi Bundh road project must move forward without delay. He maintained that technical corrections to culverts on National Highway 44 and the release of water into the Chitti Bein are necessary steps to manage flow and reduce pollution levels across the state’s drainage system.
