Health Department issues high alert in view of floods in Punjab, appeals people to follow advisory

August 29, 2025

In view of the current flood situation, Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh held a video conference with Civil Surgeons, Principals of Medical Colleges, representatives of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Red Cross, and Chemists Associations for a comprehensive review of emergency medical response, prevention of water-borne and vector-borne diseases.

Dr. Balbir Singh said that large-scale medical teams are being deployed and resources are being mobilized to provide immediate care and relief to the flood-affected people.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Balbir Singh said, “The health and well-being of our citizens is the top priority of the Punjab Government.”

Health institutions to be equipped with all equipment 

He directed the Civil Surgeons to ensure that no one is left without medical assistance during this difficult time. He directed that all health institutions be fully equipped to provide medical assistance to the patients and adequate stocks be made available.

The Minister said that on his instructions, the Health Department has launched a crucial mission to locate and provide assistance to pregnant women in the flood-affected areas. This targeted initiative has yielded life-saving results as six such women have been successfully rescued by teams in Ferozepur and Fazilka, and all of them have delivered healthy babies in government facilities.

360 mobile medical teams and 458 rapid response teams formed

He has announced a massive mobilisation of healthcare resources to deal with this crisis. The department has constituted 360 mobile medical teams and 458 rapid response teams, which are actively working in the affected areas.

The Minister said that a total of 172 ambulances have been deployed day and night for flood relief. He added, “Our teams are working on a war footing and we are confident that the state is fully prepared to deal with any medical emergency arising out of the floods.”

The Minister said that the Civil Surgeons have been asked to work with the Deputy Commissioners to distribute chlorine tablets for drinking water and to go door to door to ensure that every household has access to safe drinking water. He asked the IMA, Red Cross, Chemist Association and NGOs to work together to ensure the safety of people in the flood-affected areas.