Punjab Floods Claim 37 Lives, Lakhs Affected as Crops Submerge

Punjab is reeling under the impact of devastating floods that have claimed at least 37 lives and displaced more than 3.5 lakh people. Vast stretches of farmland, covering over 1.75 lakh hectares, remain submerged, dealing a severe blow to the state’s agrarian economy. For thousands of families, the floods have not only destroyed homes but also wiped out their primary source of income.

Officials say relief camps have been set up in the worst-hit districts, providing shelter, food, and medical aid to affected residents. However, with water levels still high in several areas, accessibility remains a challenge. Roads, schools, and local infrastructure have been damaged, slowing down rescue and rehabilitation work.

For Tier-2 cities and smaller towns in Punjab, the floods have disrupted daily life. Power cuts, water shortages, and transport delays have made recovery harder. Local markets are also facing supply gaps as roads remain blocked and crops stand ruined. Many small traders and shopkeepers fear losses will extend well beyond the flood season.

The agricultural damage is particularly alarming. With paddy fields and standing crops underwater, farmers are staring at financial distress. Agriculture being the backbone of Punjab’s economy, the impact is expected to ripple across the state, affecting food supplies, labour demand, and even local industries tied to farming.

Authorities have promised compensation and long-term support, but past experiences show that rehabilitation often takes months, if not years. Community organisations and volunteers are stepping in to provide immediate help, but resources remain stretched against the scale of the disaster.

The floods have once again exposed the vulnerability of states like Punjab to extreme weather events. For families in smaller towns and villages, rebuilding life after such destruction is a long and uncertain journey. The focus now will be on how quickly the state can move from relief to recovery, ensuring livelihoods are restored and communities made resilient for the future.