'No faith in administration', Derabassi villagers take flood control into own hands

Mohali: As Ghaggar river continues to swell due to heavy rainfall, villagers of Bhankarpur have taken it upon themselves to reinforce the weak embankments after losing faith in the administration's efforts.

Locals alleged that although officials sent a team earlier, their measures proved futile. "Three days ago, the administration placed rocks along the banks, but yesterday's intense rain and flash floods washed them away. When they came, they just beat around the bush and went back. So, we decided to do it ourselves and appealed to the youth to come forward," said Satnam Singh, a villager. He said sandbags are now being placed to strengthen the banks and avert any breach.

Rashpal Singh, another resident, said villagers arranged sandbags, tractors, and JCB machines to carry out the work. "We cannot sit idle waiting for govt help when our homes and fields are at risk," he said.

On the administrative front, additional deputy commissioner (urban development) Anmol Singh Dhaliwal on Thursday visited flood-prone low-lying areas of Derabassi. He reviewed the preparedness of the municipal council and directed officials to keep machinery, manpower, and other resources ready for emergency drainage and rescue operations.

Dhaliwal assured residents that the administration, under deputy commissioner Komal Mittal, was fully prepared to tackle any exigency. He also instructed executive officer Ravneet Singh to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of roads, sewer lines, and drains to prevent waterlogging.

While the administration claims readiness, villagers like those in Bhankarpur continue to strengthen riverbanks themselves, fearing that any lapse could put their lives and livelihoods at stake.