Chandigarh, August 19: A permanent solution to recurring flood destruction in Punjab’s border region requires the immediate completion of the Ujh Dam project, asserted Ajnala MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal following an official meeting with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.
Accompanying a public delegation of village sarpanches, block chairmen, and Zila Parishad members, the lawmaker presented a formal memorandum detailing how seasonal water surges from the Ravi and Ujh rivers devastate agricultural fields, public roads, and local infrastructure year after year.
The legislator stated that water entering from Jammu and Kashmir traverses multiple Punjab districts before causing widespread economic damage in Ajnala on its path toward Pakistan. He maintained that persistent flood threats prevent industrialists from establishing manufacturing units in the region, severely hurting local job prospects.
Urging the Central Government to expedite the Ujh Dam proposal—which has been pending approval for 10 to 12 years—the MLA pointed out that the multipurpose project would control floodwaters, produce power, supply canal-based irrigation, and generate work for local youth.
Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal affirmed that prioritizing border security and infrastructure remains essential to fulfilling national growth targets, while also requesting early release of the unreceived ₹1,600 crore flood compensation package.
Following the discussion, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria agreed to coordinate a meeting with the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti to address the constituency’s water management and compensation concerns.
