CHANDIGARH, Sept 18: Floods in Punjab have left behind a trail of health emergencies, with the state recording 16 snakebite deaths, 22,000 cases of skin infections, 19,000 cases of fever, 10,000 eye ailments, and 4,500 diarrhoea cases, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said on Thursday.
The minister noted that despite damages of nearly ₹780 crore to health infrastructure, the state has continued relief measures. “Our teams have organized special camps, checked 1.42 lakh people, and provided 87 essential medicines free of cost,” Singh mentioned. He added that 848 medical teams worked around the clock during the floods and remain active in the affected districts.
To prevent further disease outbreaks, the health department has also covered 92 lakh homes in its campaign against dengue, chikungunya, cholera, diarrhoea and other vector- and water-borne illnesses.
Singh said the state government has launched Mission Chardi Kala as a transparent platform for citizens to channel contributions to flood-hit families. “Every rupee will be used honestly and will reach those in need,” he assured.
The minister shared that he has personally contributed ₹1.25 lakh from his salary to the Chief Minister’s Flood Relief Fund earlier and donated another ₹1.25 lakh to Mission Chardi Kala.
Appealing to the wider community, Singh urged doctors, social service organizations, traders, and the people of Punjab to extend support. “Your contribution will help rebuild homes, restore farmlands and small businesses, and provide fodder for livestock,” he said, adding that donations can be made through the official state portal: www.rangla.punjab.gov.in.
