With the monsoon season approaching, residents of Patiala are growing increasingly anxious about the possibility of a repeat of the devastating floods that struck the city in 2023. The primary cause of concern is the unchecked weed growth in Badi Nadi, which has raised fears of blockages that could lead to severe flooding in low-lying areas. While extensive desilting and cleaning operations were carried out last year, progress has been slow this year, allowing dense wild vegetation to spread unchecked. The memories of the 2023 floods, which claimed 10 lives and caused widespread destruction, remain fresh in the minds of the residents.
Gopal Colony: A Vulnerable Settlement on the Banks of Badi Nadi
Gopal Colony, located along the banks of Badi Nadi and inhabited largely by migrant labourers, is particularly vulnerable. Many families in this area do not possess official land records, making them especially susceptible to displacement and loss during flooding. During the 2023 floods, more than 800 families were relocated, and many lost their lifelong savings while receiving little compensation from the administration. The floods also resulted in 10 deaths in the district. Gopal Colony has experienced flooding three times in the past decade — in 2017, 2021, and 2023 — with the most recent flood causing the greatest destruction.
Administration's Response and Compensation in 2023
The administration stated that over Rs 83 crore was released for flood relief. Compensation of Rs 40 lakh was paid to the families of those who died. As many as 76 animals perished, with Rs 21.76 lakh disbursed to their owners. More than 1,800 houses were damaged, and homeowners received Rs 3.73 crore in compensation. Additionally, Rs 78.93 crore was distributed to 36,497 farmers who suffered crop losses. Despite these efforts, residents feel that the compensation was insufficient, especially for those without land records.
Urban Estate Residents on Edge
Residents of Patiala's Urban Estate are also on edge. This upscale locality was among the worst-affected areas during the 2023 floods. With the arrival of the monsoon and the possibility of rising water levels in the Ghaggar River, residents fear a repeat of the devastation. They say unchecked vegetation in Badi Nadi and Chhoti Nadi has added to their concerns. Amarjeet Singh Waraich, a resident of Urban Estate, recalled the losses he suffered in 2023. He said he has placed his valuables on elevated iron tables to protect them in case floodwaters enter his home again. Despite repeated attempts, Mayor Kundan Gogia could not be contacted for comments on the issue.
Urgent Need for Preventive Measures
Residents are calling for immediate desilting and cleaning of the drains to prevent blockages. They urge the administration to take proactive measures to avoid a repeat of the 2023 disaster. The slow pace of work this year has heightened fears, and many are bracing for the worst as the monsoon intensifies.
