Punjab is battling its worst floods in recent years, with all 23 districts declared flood-hit. Nearly 1,902 villages are submerged, affecting over 3.8 lakh people and destroying 11.7 lakh hectares of farmland. The northern district of Gurdaspur is the worst-hit, with 329 villages underwater. At least 43 lives have been lost, while across the border in Pakistan’s Punjab, over 9 lakh people have been displaced.

Why Punjab Floods Every Year

Punjab, the “land of five rivers,” is prone to flooding due to heavy monsoon rains and swollen rivers like the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. This year, rainfall was 45% above normal in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, leading to massive river overflows. The Beas surged after exceptional rains in Himachal, while the Ravi swelled and damaged gates of the Madhopur Barrage. Southern Punjab’s Malwa region also faced severe waterlogging.

Dams, Reservoirs, and Mismanagement

The Bhakra, Pong, and Thein dams regulate Punjab’s rivers, but sudden water releases during heavy inflows worsened downstream flooding. The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has faced criticism for prioritising irrigation and power generation over flood safety, leaving little buffer for unexpected rains. Punjab officials allege poor coordination and late warnings from dam authorities.

Weak Infrastructure and Long-Term Challenges

Flood defences like dhussi bundhs (earthen embankments) have weakened due to illegal mining and poor upkeep. Experts recommend strengthening embankments, desilting river channels, and better coordination between state and central agencies. However, flood control often receives attention only after disasters, with required investments of ₹4,000–5,000 crore still pending.

The 2025 floods underscore the urgent need for proactive flood management, stronger infrastructure, and cooperative governance to protect lives, agriculture, and livelihoods in Punjab.