Punjab Government’s ‘Operation Rahat’ Becomes a Lifeline for Flood Victims and Farmers!

National News:  In a heartfelt display of leadership and compassion, the Punjab Government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has launched a special initiative, “Operation Rahat,” aimed at bringing urgent relief and long-term recovery to flood-affected communities. This mission is being spearheaded by Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains, who is leading efforts both administratively and on the ground.

Minister Bains Donates ₹5 Lakh for 50 Homes

Taking a personal step to help victims, Minister Bains contributed ₹5 lakh from his family funds to repair and rebuild 50 flood-damaged homes. This gesture has offered a new ray of hope to families who lost everything during the disaster and reflects his deep commitment to the welfare of his constituency.

Villages Still Struggling Despite Subside in Water Levels

Although the water flow from Bhakra Dam and Himachal Pradesh has now reduced, several villages in Anandpur Sahib constituency and Nangal remain in distress. Homes, farmlands, and roads have been severely damaged, leaving residents grappling with loss and uncertainty. Minister Bains has been personally visiting the worst-hit areas, ensuring relief efforts are not delayed and every affected household receives direct support.

Hands-On Leadership: Minister Bains on the Ground

What makes Operation Rahat unique is the active involvement of Minister Bains. Rather than staying confined to his office, he has been working alongside volunteers, sarpanches, and youth organizations, directly participating in relief work. From joining cleanliness drives in government schools to engaging with local communities, he has set an example of hands-on leadership. “With the blessings of Waheguru and the collective strength of our people, we will rise above this calamity,” he assured villagers during a recent visit.

Health and Safety: Preventing Post-Flood Outbreaks

To protect both humans and animals from disease outbreaks, Operation Rahat includes:

• DDT spraying and fogging to control mosquitoes and insects
• Deployment of medical teams for immediate healthcare services
• Veterinary doctors for livestock treatment and care
• These measures aim to minimize health risks in the aftermath of stagnant water and damaged sanitation systems.
• Farmers Hit Hard as Crops Destroyed
• The floods have completely destroyed maize and paddy crops, devastating the livelihood of countless farmers.

To tackle this crisis, the government has deployed field officers, including patwaris, kanungos, tehsildars, SDMs, and sarpanches, who will remain stationed in villages for the next 10 days. Their role is to:

Fast-track compensation claims

• Deliver government schemes and financial aid directly to affected farmers
• Provide special relief to families who lost livestock
• Swift Action: Data Collection and Restoration Work

Minister Bains confirmed that data collection for damaged homes will be completed within 3–4 days, after which restoration and rebuilding work will begin immediately.

“Operation Rahat will be executed on a large scale over the next 8–10 days to ensure timely relief and rehabilitation for every affected family,” he stated.

Shelter and Care Even Before the Official Launch

Even before Operation Rahat was officially announced, Minister Bains had opened his personal residences to provide shelter and aid to flood victims.

• Ancestral home in Gambhirpur
• Sewa Sadan in Nangal
• These homes offered 24×7 shelter, food, and medical assistance to displaced families.

“Whatever I am today is because of the love and trust of my people. In this time of crisis, my homes were open around the clock for anyone in need,” Bains shared emotionally.

Operation Rahat: A Symbol of Compassion and Governance

Operation Rahat goes beyond traditional relief work. It represents a powerful blend of compassion, accountability, and grassroots leadership. Through this initiative, the Punjab Government is not only rebuilding damaged houses and infrastructure but also restoring the faith and spirit of the people. As relief efforts gain momentum, the residents of Anandpur Sahib and surrounding areas are finally beginning to see hope after despair, proving that when government and communities work together, recovery is not just possible—it becomes a promise fulfilled.