Punjab to geo-fence 850 water bodies after floods

Move aims to curb constructions near rivers and prevent damage

- HARPREET BAJWA @Chandigarh

PUNJAB proposes to geo-fence 850 major rivers, canals, and water bodies in the state after heavy rains caused widespread flooding and breaches in river embankments. The measure aims to prevent damage from future floods and control construction near water bodies.

The recent floods caused the most destruction along the Ravi River, which saw around 42 breaches in its embankments. Across the state, nearly 45 breaches were reported in rivers and canals. The districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka were the worst affected.