PHAGWARA: Continuous heavy rainfall over the past fortnight has left roads across Phagwara in a deplorable state, with deep potholes posing a constant risk of accidents. Local residents have strongly questioned the administration’s preparedness before the monsoon, alleging that long-standing demands for road repairs were ignored. What were once minor cracks and pits have now turned into large, water-filled craters that have become hazardous for commuters. Citizens have urged authorities to immediately fill the potholes with premix while there is a brief respite from rain, to ensure safety in the event of further downpours.
Beyond the roads, the rains have highlighted broader issues of urban neglect. In the posh locality of Hargobind Nagar, large tree was seen precariously hanging, raising safety concerns for residents. Vacant plots across the area remain choked with garbage, but the Municipal Corporation has been accused of turning a blind eye to the problem despite repeated complaints from locals.
The impact of the rains has been felt not only on infrastructure but also on vulnerable families. In Cheheru village, a Gujjar family led by Siraj Ali was left devastated when sudden flooding of the Beas river submerged their home and belongings. Forced to live in makeshift conditions with his five daughters for over a week, the family received much-needed assistance when Improvement Trust Phagwara Chairman and Aam Aadmi Party SC Wing Punjab zonal in-charge Jarnail Nangal, along with his team, provided dry rations, cattle feed, clothing, and blankets. Nangal assured the victims that the Punjab government remains committed to ensuring no family is left without essential support during this crisis.
Meanwhile, relief measures extended beyond Phagwara into the flood-hit villages of Bhulath constituency. Halka Incharge Harsimran Singh Ghumman and Phagwara Halka Incharge Harnoor Singh Harji Mann jointly distributed food supplies and fodder for livestock in Mand Sangoja and Batala villages. In the presence of villagers, the two young leaders also offered prayers for Punjab’s resilience and for an early end to the natural calamity. Mann emphasized that Phagwara stands firmly with the people of Bhulath in their time of need, pledging continued assistance even after the floodwaters recede.
Adding to the ongoing relief work, the Panchayat Union of Phagwara, led by Union President Narinder Singh of Madhopur and Vice President Ranjit Singh of Nangal Majha, distributed tarpaulins and ration kits to affected families across several villages. Fodder was also arranged for livestock struggling in flood-hit areas. The union leaders stressed that every possible effort was being made to support displaced families and farmers. They further urged both state and central governments to provide immediate compensation for crop losses and damaged houses, while also lauding the efforts of the Phagwara administration in extending on-ground relief.
The dual crisis of crumbling infrastructure and widespread flooding has underscored both the vulnerabilities and resilience of the region. As communities grapple with the aftermath of torrential rains, relief teams, local bodies, and political leaders continue to step in with aid — a reminder that coordinated action will be essential until normalcy is fully restored.