Ravi River De-silted to Prevent 2025 Flood Repeat

Authorities in Gurdaspur have initiated a large-scale de-silting drive along the Ravi river to avert a repeat of last year's catastrophic floods. The operation, described as being on a 'war footing,' is actively clearing accumulated silt and debris at Dharamkot Pattan to restore the river's natural flow and drainage capacity before the monsoon.

Last year's floods in 2025 caused widespread devastation, submerging 329 villages, claiming one life, and destroying crops across 73,443 acres. The deposited silt significantly reduced the Ravi's carrying capacity, raising flood risks. The current project, guided by national sediment management frameworks and technical approvals, uses digital geo-fencing for transparency and monitoring.

Engineers are working diligently to remove bottlenecks and ensure the smooth passage of floodwaters. The excavated material is being stored for future flood-control works, and river embankments are being strengthened. With the monsoon approaching, the department is committed to completing the crucial de-silting work within the deadline to protect lives and property.