Panjab Floods 2025: How Khalsa Aid’s Previous Relief Work Shielded a Village from Disaster

The recent Panjab floods 2025 caused severe damage to crops, homes, and livelihoods along the Beas, Ravi, and Satluj rivers. Districts including Gurdaspur, Kapurthala, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur were among the 23 areas most affected by river breaches and heavy waterlogging. Yet, amidst all the widespread damage, one village escaped the worst impacts of flooding. This was possible because of the flood relief work carried out by Khalsa Aid in 2019 and 2023.

A Village at Risk: Gatta Mundi Kasu

Gatta Mundi Kasu, located on the banks of the Satluj River in Jalandhar district, was untouched by the destruction caused by the recent floods. The village is normally prone to seasonal flooding due to its proximity to the river. However, it was spared this time because of the riverbank strengthening efforts carried out over the past few years.

In 2019 and 2023, Khalsa Aid reinforced a 1.5 km stretch of the flood-prone embankment. Behind the main embankment, a secondary temporary structure was also built as a second line of defence in case of overflow. This added protection not only safeguarded Gatta Mundi Kasu but also supported nearby villages. Building on their previous efforts, Khalsa Aid is now strengthening a third layer of the riverbank to provide even greater protection against future floods.

The Importance of Proactive Planning

Without these strengthened embankments, the flood-prone Gatta Mundi Kasu would have suffered heavy losses. This highlights the importance of proactive planning and foresight in disaster management for vulnerable areas.

The relief work by Khalsa Aid prevented displacement, crop loss, and property damage during this year’s high river flows. There is also a possibility to turn the current temporary arrangement into a permanent flood management system, offering long-term security for the community.

Khalsa Aid Volunteers Supporting the Community

Khalsa Aid volunteers continue to work with communities across Panjab, including Gatta Mundi Kasu, to reduce the impact of floods and help build resilience. Their work includes:

• Reinforcing embankments to keep floodwater out of homes and farmland
• Clearing silt and debris to help rivers flow naturally
• Strengthening vulnerable areas with sand, soil, and stone to prevent future breaches

This work goes beyond repairing riverbanks. Each reinforced embankment brings hope and safety, allowing families to live without fear of the next flood.

Voices from the Community

Residents shared how, in the past, breached embankments allowed floodwater to destroy homes and fields. With Khalsa Aid volunteers working alongside them, families were able to rebuild and feel safe again. The support has given communities confidence and reassurance in times of disaster.

A Model for Flood Preparedness in Panjab

Gatta Mundi Kasu shows how strong riverbanks and community cooperation can protect vulnerable villages. With the support of Khalsa Aid, these communities are not only shielded from floods but are also empowered to plan for the future and build lasting resilience.