LUDHIANA – In a proactive move to fortify the state’s flood defenses ahead of the monsoon, Punjab Water Resources and Mines and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Satluj Dhussi Dam at Sasrali Colony today.
The project, which aims to repair a critical 3,300-foot stretch of the embankment that was washed away in previous flooding, is being executed at a cost of Rs. 11.75 crore. During the review, Minister Goyal emphasized that completing the work with both urgency and high quality is vital to protecting the lives and property of residents living along the Sutlej River.
A Modern Approach to Flood Management
A hallmark of this reconstruction project is the introduction of Polypropylene Multifilament (PPMF) geotubes. This marks the first time this modern geosynthetic engineering technique has been deployed for riverbank protection in Punjab.
Designed to significantly curb bank erosion, the project requires the installation of 450 geotubes. Official reports indicate that 325 units are already in place, with the remainder slated for completion shortly. Complementing this, the embankment is being reinforced with 2,00,000 cubic meters of soil, with 1,50,000 cubic meters already successfully laid.
Government Commitment and Directives
Addressing officials and local residents, Minister Goyal reiterated the commitment of the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government to strengthen infrastructure against natural disasters.
“The safety and welfare of our people remain our first priority,” said Goyal. “We are working with full dedication to ensure that flood management is effective and that our river embankments can withstand the water pressure during the monsoon season.”
The Minister issued clear directives to the department to:
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Maintain Strict Quality Standards: Ensure all construction adheres to safety norms.
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Expedite Progress: Deploy additional machinery and manpower where necessary to beat the monsoon deadline.
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Provide Continuous Oversight: Conduct regular reviews to ensure the project meets its stipulated timeline.
Local Monitoring
Sub Divisional Magistrate (Ludhiana East) Jasleen Kaur Bhullar confirmed that the district administration is maintaining close coordination with the Water Resources Department. “We are providing constant oversight of the construction and paying special attention to sensitive locations to ensure we are prepared for any emergency,” she added.
The visit concluded with the Minister interacting with local villagers, listening to their concerns, and assuring them that the government is making all necessary arrangements in advance to mitigate flood risks for the upcoming season.
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