Punjab, often celebrated as the “Granary of India,” has seen repeated episodes of devastating floods in recent years. Despite being a landlocked state, Punjab’s geography, infrastructure, and agricultural practices make it highly vulnerable to recurring floods. Let’s break down the key reasons why Punjab continues to struggle with this problem.

1. Heavy and Erratic Rainfall

The primary trigger for floods in Punjab is the increasingly unpredictable monsoon pattern. In recent years, rainfall has become both intense and erratic, with short bursts of very heavy downpours overwhelming the natural drainage system. Even a few days of cloudbursts can lead to widespread waterlogging across cities and farmlands.

2. Overflowing Rivers and Dam Releases

Punjab is crisscrossed by rivers such as the Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi. When upstream regions receive excessive rainfall, dams and barrages release water, often without adequate warning. This sudden surge leads to flooding in downstream districts, leaving little time for preparation.

3. Poor Drainage and Encroachments

Rapid urbanization and unchecked construction have choked Punjab’s natural drainage channels. Villages and cities have expanded into areas that used to be floodplains. As a result, excess water has nowhere to go, causing urban flooding even in relatively dry regions.

4. Agriculture Practices Worsening Floods

Punjab’s intensive farming, particularly the paddy crop, requires heavy irrigation and leads to standing water in fields. This weakens soil absorption capacity. During heavy rains, waterlogging becomes severe, especially in low-lying areas.

5. Climate Change Intensifying Extremes

The global climate crisis is making Punjab’s situation worse. Scientists note that climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, leading to more frequent and severe floods. Rising temperatures increase evaporation and moisture, fueling heavier monsoons.

6. Delayed Infrastructure Upgrades

Flood-prevention infrastructure like embankments, drains, and check dams in Punjab is outdated and poorly maintained. Without regular desilting and modernization, these systems fail during high-pressure situations.

What Can Be Done?

To reduce flooding, Punjab needs a multi-pronged approach:

  • Strengthen drainage systems with modern infrastructure.

  • Restrict construction on floodplains to preserve natural water flow.

  • Shift to sustainable agriculture with less water-intensive crops.

  • Improve flood forecasting and dam management for timely alerts.

  • Invest in climate resilience and eco-friendly land use planning.

Conclusion

Punjab’s floods are not just a natural disaster but also a man-made crisis stemming from poor planning, unsustainable practices, and the growing impact of climate change. Unless proactive steps are taken, the “land of five rivers” will continue to face repeated devastation, impacting both livelihoods and the state’s crucial role in India’s food security.