Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit flood-hit regions in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh today, September 9, to personally inspect the damage caused by the devastating floods that have wreaked havoc in both states. This will be Modi’s first visit to the areas since the natural calamity struck, prompting both state governments to officially declare the regions flood-affected.
The Prime Minister’s visit will begin with an aerial survey of flood-impacted districts in both states, followed by face-to-face meetings with local authorities and affected citizens. His trip is expected to provide a crucial insight into the scale of the damage and to announce possible relief measures.
PM Modi’s Itinerary: From Pathankot to Himachal’s High-Risk Areas
PM Modi will begin his day by landing in Pathankot, Punjab, where he will be briefed on the local situation. Following this, he will travel by helicopter to Himachal Pradesh, where the flood-affected districts of Chamba, Kullu, and Mandi are expected to be the focus of his aerial survey. Modi’s aerial inspection is expected to provide him with a bird’s-eye view of the extent of flood damage in the hilly terrain.
After the survey, the Prime Minister will land in Gaggal, near Dharamshala, at around 11:30 AM. There, he will hold a meeting with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Sukhu and other senior officials to discuss immediate relief strategies and long-term rehabilitation plans.
Security and Safety Measures
With the high-profile visit of the Prime Minister, security arrangements have been tightened across both states, especially in Pathankot and Gurdaspur. Authorities are ensuring that all safety protocols are followed to protect the dignitaries and local residents while minimizing disruption in the flood-affected regions.
Relief and Rehabilitation: Expectations of a Big Package
Both Punjab and Himachal Pradesh are anticipating a major financial package from the central government to assist with recovery efforts. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government has called for a ₹80,000 crore relief package, arguing that the scale of the disaster demands urgent financial support to rebuild infrastructure, restore agriculture, and help displaced families.
PM Modi to Meet Victims in Gurdaspur
Following his engagements in Himachal Pradesh, PM Modi will return to Punjab to visit Gurdaspur, where he is expected to meet flood victims and hear firsthand accounts of their experiences. The meeting in Gurdaspur is scheduled for around 4 PM. Local BJP leaders, including Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar and Executive President Ashwini Sharma, will be present during this portion of the visit. However, due to health issues, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who is currently hospitalized, will not be able to attend the event. In his place, the state’s Chief Secretary will provide a detailed report on the flood situation.
A Moment of Solidarity Amidst Crisis
PM Modi’s visit is a symbol of national unity during a time of crisis. The floods have caused significant disruptions, displacing thousands of families, destroying crops, and damaging critical infrastructure. The region’s topography and the scale of the disaster make recovery efforts more challenging, but the visit underscores the Centre’s commitment to supporting flood-affected communities.
While officials in both states await immediate relief packages, the focus remains on long-term measures to prevent future floods and enhance disaster preparedness. The Prime Minister’s visit is seen as a step towards not just offering immediate aid but also initiating a broader conversation about building flood-resilient infrastructure in vulnerable regions like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
