Even after getting the lion's share of Rs 8.56 crore this year from the total Rs 56 crore sanctioned for the cleaning drains in the state, Muktsar is among the worst flood-hit districts.
Most of its areas are submerged in rainwater that too when there is no rain for the last three days. It has even put the functioning of the Drainage Department under a scanner.
Drainage officials have admitted that they were given as much money as sought by them for the purpose.
"Nearly Rs 5.29 crore was sanctioned for Gidderbaha circle and Rs 3.27 crore for Muktsar for cleaning drains. Even the work was done. The problem arose because of heavy rainfall and overflow of drains in Ferozepur," said PPS Ghumman, Superintending Engineer, Drainage Department, adding that they were now making all efforts to drain out the floodwater.
Meanwhile, the floodwater that has changed its flow from Muktsar to Gidderbaha villages could spell more trouble for officials. "The level of water has risen in some villages in Gidderbaha," said a senior official engaged in flood-control operation.
The residents have blamed the administration for slow pace of rescue operation. Activists of the Punjab Khet Mazdoor Union also staged a dharna outside District Administrative Complex demanding canopies.
Nek Singh, a resident of Bhundar village, said water had almost touching the height of 5 feet, but the administration had not made any arrangement to evacuate them. "After waiting for five days, we finally brought our animals on road by using tyres as boats. The administration must speed up its efforts," he said.
An aerial survey of flooded villages was also conducted in the afternoon.
apathy alleged
The
residents have blamed the administration for slow pace of rescue
operation. Some of them alleged the administration was focusing only on
Muktsar villages while ignoring Malout and Gidderbaha blocks. Irate
residents in some villages even blocked the Muktsar-Kotkapura highway
today at Sarainaga for nearly four hours, demanding drainage of
rainwater.
relief material
The
administration today started distribution of relief material to the
flood affected people. "Packets containing wheat flour and other grocery
items, and cattle feed are being distributed in villages," said Deputy
Commissioner Parmjit Singh. The health authorities have sought 50
doctors, 80 pharmacists and 12 ambulances from other districts, fearing
disease outbreak
leaders’ visit
Chief
Minister Parkash Singh Badal is expected to visit Muktsar on Friday and
his deputy Sukhbir Badal on Thursday. So far, Special Principal
Secretary to Chief Minister, KJS Cheema; Principal Secretary,
Irrigation, Sarvesh Kaushal; Director, Health department, Ashok Nayyar
and Director, Animal Husbandry Department, HS Sandha have visited the
district to take stock of the situation
