Chandigarh, Sept 15— When the Ravi river swelled last month, entire villages in Punjab, including Kohlian Adda, were submerged, leaving lakhs homeless and thousands of acres of crops destroyed. Among those affected were two cobbler families who lost all their tools and belongings in the floodwaters.
“Everything was washed away in a single night,” said one family member. “We didn’t know how we would start again.”
The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, moved quickly to assist those impacted by the disaster. Following the Chief Minister’s instructions, Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak visited Kohlian Adda to provide direct relief.
“One family received essential tools and new pairs of shoes to resume their work, while the other was given financial assistance to stabilize their household,” Minister Kataruchak said. “Our aim is to ensure that no family feels alone during this recovery process.”
State officials have distributed more than 400 beds, mattresses, mosquito nets, gas cylinders, and other essentials across flood-hit villages in the constituency. The government has also promised support for housing, employment, and long-term rehabilitation of affected families.
Residents said the assistance has been a lifeline. “It’s not just about the money or items,” another affected resident noted. “It gives us hope that we can rebuild our lives and secure our children’s future.”
The AAP government emphasized that relief efforts are being coordinated at every level, with ministers and local administration working to restore normalcy quickly. Experts say the combined focus on immediate relief and livelihood restoration is critical for long-term recovery in flood-prone regions of Punjab.
“This is more than just handing out aid,” Minister Kataruchak added. “It’s about rebuilding confidence, ensuring families can stand on their own, and helping communities recover together.”
