The Punjab government has ordered all schools to remain closed from August 27 to 30 following continuous heavy rainfall and rising flood risks. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the decision was made to protect students as more downpours are expected.
“It has been raining heavily for the past few days and the weather department has predicted more rainfall in the coming days. Keeping student safety in mind, all government and private schools, from primary to senior secondary, will remain shut,” Mann announced on X.
Districts Already Affected
- Hoshiarpur: Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain closed schools on August 26 and 27 due to blocked roads and rising water.
- Pathankot: Schools and colleges stayed closed on August 25 and 26 following heavy rainfall, as announced by Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal.
- Jalandhar & Kapurthala: Both districts suspended classes on August 26 due to flood warnings.
- Fazilka: Schools in 20 villages along the Sutlej River were shut as water levels rose dangerously.
Red Alert in Five Districts
The Meteorological Department in Chandigarh issued a red alert for Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Barnala, Sangrur, and Mansa. Officials warned of extremely heavy rain that may cause flash floods, waterlogging, and transport disruptions. Local authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant and activate disaster management systems.
Rivers Overflow, Farmland Submerged
Flooding has worsened as the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi rivers overflow following rainfall in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab. Surplus water released from Pong and Bhakra dams has added to the flood threat. Large areas of farmland are already submerged.
On Sunday, floodwater from the Beas River entered fields near villages in Hoshiarpur’s Mukerian subdivision after the Chakki Khad catchment breached embankments.
Also Read: Heavy Rains Trigger Night Ban In J&K’s Dharmari — Routes Closed, Key Details Here
Government Response and Safety Measures
The state government has ordered a loss assessment to estimate damage to crops and infrastructure. Residents in low-lying areas are urged to stay alert. Emergency services are on high alert, and residents are urged to safeguard their property and livestock, stay informed by official updates, and avoid traveling in areas that are vulnerable to flooding.
