The EditorGhaggar River Level Under Control in Kaithal
Continuous rainfall in the hills has raised concerns about the rising water level of the Ghaggar River. However, as per the latest update, the river is currently flowing below the danger mark in Kaithal district. On Tuesday at 4 PM, the water level at the Ghaggar gauge was recorded at 21.7 feet, while the danger mark stands at 23 feet. Officials confirmed that the situation is under control, but the administration is maintaining strict vigilance to handle any emergency.
DC Preeti Inspects Flood-Prone Villages
Deputy Commissioner Preeti personally visited several villages across the Guhla-Cheeka region to assess ground realities. She interacted with local residents to understand their concerns and reviewed areas that faced damage during last year’s floods. Her visit highlighted the administration’s preparedness and commitment to ensuring public safety.
During her inspection, she covered villages such as Sihali, Rattakheda, Arnauli, Paprala, Manjhedi, Maigda, and Budanpur, which are considered vulnerable during floods. These areas are at risk of losing road connectivity when water flows over the roads. The DC directed officials to prepare a contingency plan for providing timely assistance in such scenarios.
Joint Inspection with Patiala Administration Planned
Villagers of Sihali submitted a memorandum to the DC demanding repair of the Ghaggar bund in Punjab territory. Responding to this, DC Preeti instructed the SDM of Guhla to coordinate with Patiala administration for a joint inspection and solution. This proactive measure reflects the importance of inter-state cooperation in managing flood risks along the Ghaggar River.
5 KM Walk to Hansi-Butana Canal Breach Point
Before meeting villagers, DC Preeti inspected the Hansi-Butana link canal, which was breached during the 2023 floods. To reach the exact breach point, she walked five kilometers on foot with officials, symbolizing her dedication to first-hand inspection. She directed the Irrigation Department to strengthen the area using soil-filled bags and ensure constant monitoring to prevent any repeat of last year’s damage.
Flood Preparedness Review Meeting in Guhla
After her field visit, DC Preeti chaired a meeting with officials from health, irrigation, police, SDRF, animal husbandry, revenue, and panchayat departments at the PWD rest house in Guhla. The meeting focused on flood preparedness, with emphasis on early warning systems, food and water supply arrangements, and coordination among departments.
The DC stressed that patwaris and gram secretaries must stay present in villages and regularly share updates with the district administration. She also instructed tehsildars and naib tehsildars to maintain close coordination with local police for rapid response during emergencies.
Villagers Demand Repair of Ghaggar Bund in Punjab
The demand for strengthening the Ghaggar embankment (bund) in Punjab side was strongly raised by villagers, as its weak condition poses a threat to Haryana villages. The administration assured villagers that the issue will be taken up jointly with Patiala authorities, ensuring long-term flood protection for border villages.
Animal Husbandry and Health Department on Alert
During the review, the Animal Husbandry Department informed that around 40 poultry farms have been identified in the flood-prone region. Of these, 17 farms have already shifted their poultry to safer places. Adequate medicines and a mobile veterinary van have been arranged.
Similarly, the Health Department has ensured the availability of ambulances, first aid, and essential medicines. DC Preeti ordered deployment of veterinary surgeons (VLDA) in vulnerable areas to ensure quick treatment of livestock when needed.
Strict Instructions Against Rumors and Panic
To prevent rumor-mongering and panic, DC Preeti instructed the police and SDRF to maintain a strong presence at sensitive points along the Ghaggar. Villagers were urged not to spread old videos or misleading information on social media. She warned that strict action would be taken against those indulging in spreading false information during this sensitive time.
Continuous Monitoring and Public Trust
The DC reassured citizens that the administration is fully prepared to handle any situation arising from rising water levels. She emphasized that flood preparedness is a collective effort, involving district officials, panchayats, social organizations, and villagers themselves.
The visit ended with public appreciation, as villagers expressed confidence in the district administration’s proactive measures.
