Punjab is grappling with unprecedented flooding as the monsoon season delivers its most severe blow in decades. Rivers Beas, Sutlej, Chenab, and Ravi have breached record levels, submerging vast swathes of land, displacing millions, and threatening the region’s agricultural backbone.
Gurdaspur, The tranquil landscapes of Gurdaspur have been transformed into scenes of devastation as relentless monsoon rains and the overflowing Ravi River have submerged vast stretches of land and villages. This unprecedented flooding has left thousands stranded, homes destroyed, and the community in dire need of assistance.
Rescue and Relief Operations
In response to the crisis, a massive rescue operation has been launched. The Border Security Force (BSF), in collaboration with the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), has rescued over 1,200 villagers from flood-hit areas. In one dramatic instance, a 15-day-old infant and her mother were rescued after being trapped for four days in a submerged house.
The Beas River has reached alarming levels, with water discharge increasing from 2.17 lakh cusecs on Saturday to 2.35 lakh cusecs on Sunday. This surge is attributed to continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas and the release of excess water from upstream dams. In Kapurthala’s Mand area, nearly 8,000 residents from 14 villages have been evacuated due to the inundation of approximately 30,000 acres of agricultural land .
A Monsoon Like No Other
As of September 1, 2025, the flood situation in Punjab has escalated, particularly affecting the Gurdaspur, Kapurthala, and Beas regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for these areas, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, which is likely to continue over the next 24 to 48 hours .
In India, the Punjab state is experiencing similar challenges. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for heavy rainfall, warning of potential flash floods and urging residents to remain vigilant .
Emergency Response and Relief Efforts
Rescue operations are underway on both sides of the border. In Pakistan, emergency shelters have been established in schools and government buildings, with boats and drones deployed to assist in evacuations . In India, the Punjab government has mobilized resources to affected districts, providing relief materials and setting up temporary shelters.
Agricultural Impact and Economic Fallout
Punjab’s fertile plains, often referred to as the “breadbasket” of the region, have suffered extensive crop damage. The flooding threatens the livelihoods of countless farmers and raises concerns about food security in the coming months. Authorities are assessing the damage and planning for long-term rehabilitation efforts.
Looking Ahead: Climate Change and Future Preparedness
Experts warn that the increasing frequency and intensity of such floods are indicative of broader climate change patterns. Both India and Pakistan are being urged to invest in climate resilience measures, including improved flood forecasting, infrastructure strengthening, and regional cooperation to manage shared water resources.
Severe Flooding in Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Beas: A Regional Crisis Unfolds
As of September 1, 2025, the flood situation in Punjab has escalated, particularly affecting the Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Beas regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for these areas, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, which is likely to continue over the next 24 to 48 hours .
Intensified Rainfall and Rising Water Levels
The Beas River has reached alarming levels, with water discharge increasing from 2.17 lakh cusecs on Saturday to 2.35 lakh cusecs on Sunday. This surge is attributed to continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas and the release of excess water from upstream dams. In Kapurthala’s Mand area, nearly 8,000 residents from 14 villages have been evacuated due to the inundation of approximately 30,000 acres of agricultural land .
FAQs:
The recent floods have severely impacted Ferozepur, Fazilka, Ajnala, Kapurthala, Beas, and Gurdaspur districts. Over 1,000 villages have been inundated, and relief and rescue operations are ongoing.
Continuous heavy rainfall, above-normal monsoon patterns, and the release of excess water from upstream dams have combined to cause severe flooding.
The Punjab government has initiated evacuations, set up emergency shelters, extended school holidays, and mobilized rescue teams. The Union Home Ministry has formed central teams to coordinate relief efforts across affected districts.
Over 61,000 hectares (approximately 1.5 lakh acres) of farmland across districts including Ferozepur, Fazilka, Ajnala, Kapurthala, Beas, and Gurdaspur districts have been affected, damaging paddy fields and other crops, threatening farmers’ livelihoods and food security.