Punjab: Ludhiana on alert after heavy discharge of water in Sutlej

Due to the heavy release of water from Ropar headworks in Sutlej river, Punjab government has put a precautionary alert in the areas close to the river in the district of Ludhiana.

"Two lakh cusecs of water has been released from Ropar headworks which takes about five to six hours to reach Ludhiana. Though the situation is under control, a precautionary alert has been sounded in few areas around Sutlej river," said Deputy Commissioner Pradeep Agarwal.

"The evacuation centres are ready and well equipped if the water level increases. Around 23 villages can be affected if the water level increases. So we have alerted the villagers," he further said.

Agarwal said the river can handle around three lakh cusecs of water and there is no need to panic. Also, the teams are ready to combat any water-logging situation if the need arises.

Dilesh Singh, a villager of Khira Bait, said: "The district authorities have visited to examine the situation on the ground. Almost all agricultural fields are inundated. Farmers have been badly affected."

"Every day we live with so much caution. As of now, no arrangements have been made in the village. However, the authorities came to visit us today. They will make necessary arrangements if needed," said another villager, Kartar Singh.