Desilting Work Underway at Dharamkot Ghonewal Complex
The Water Resources Department has intensified desilting operations on the Ravi river, focusing on the Dharamkot Ghonewal complex, to enhance water-carrying capacity and mitigate flood risks in Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts ahead of the monsoon season. Executive Engineer Vishavpal Goyal stated that large-scale removal of silt and debris is being carried out to ensure smooth flow of floodwaters and protect villages near the International Border.
Lessons from Devastating 2025 Floods
Last year, the Ravi breached its embankments at 23 locations in Amritsar district, affecting 198 villages. The floods claimed 10 lives, destroyed crops on 59,793 acres, and killed 307 livestock. At the Dharamkot Ghonewal complex alone, six breaches occurred, leaving heavy silt deposits that reduced the river's flood-carrying capacity.
Detailed Project Report and Approval
Following detailed surveys, the department prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) aligned with the National Framework for Sediment Management issued by the Government of India. The project was approved by the Joint State Technical Advisory Committee, which includes experts from state and central governments.
Digital Geo-Fencing for Transparency
Goyal emphasized that desilting is conducted under strict supervision using digital geo-fencing technology to ensure transparency and compliance. Excavated material is stored at designated locations for emergency flood-control measures, such as strengthening embankments and filling sandbags.
War-Footage Efforts Before Peak Monsoon
The department is working on a war footing to safeguard lives, crops, and livelihoods before peak monsoon flows arrive. Continuous monitoring of the project site is being carried out to ensure timely completion.
