Punjab Water Resources Minister Chetan Singh Jauramajra, in a review meeting with the offers of the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) on Monday, asked them to take proactive measures against potential floods well in advance. The Minister categorically directed the BBMB officers to provide timely updates on water release from the dams, enabling government and farmers to take preventive measures effectively.

The directions to this effect were given by the Minister while chairing the meeting to assess the ongoing projects, future initiatives, and water storage at the dams with the BBMB officials.

The Minister reaffirmed the relentless efforts of the State Government in strengthening the canal irrigation system, ensuring consistent water access for the state farmers.

During the meeting, Jauramajra was briefed about the infrastructure managed by the institution, water regulatory measures, and the distribution of shares among partner states by the officials.

At the same time, the Minister asked the officers that the proactive measures against potential floods should be taken well in advance, categorically directing BBMB officers to provide timely updates on water release from the dams, enabling government and farmers to take preventive measures effectively.

Expressing his intent to conduct on-site assessments of the dams soon, Jauramajra said that this time, the State Government has made canal water available to the farmers as per their demand, which has happened for the first time in the state. “Around 38 per cent increase has been recorded in the use of canal water compared to the previous year,” informed the Minister, adding that canal water usage will be further increased this year.

He further underscored the need to chalk out a plan to ensure optimum use of canal water to save the depleting ground water. The issues pertaining to other states' water-related issues were also discussed in the meeting.