Punjab floods: 30 dead, over 3 lakh affected in worst floods since 1988

Punjab is experiencing its most severe floods since 1988, with at least 30 people reported dead and more than 3,54,000 affected. The disaster has impacted all 23 districts of the state, submerging over 1400 villages and inundating around 3 lakh acres of farmland. Authorities have evacuated approximately 20,000 people from low-lying areas to hundreds of relief camps. In response to the crisis, schools and colleges across Punjab are to remain closed until September. The situation has been described as "the worst flood of the state since 1988," turning the 'land of 5 rivers' into a land of floods. Reports from inundated areas like Mohali, Firozpur, and Kapurthala show highways and residential colonies underwater, with the Beas and Ravi rivers causing extensive damage. Relief efforts are underway to address the widespread impact on life, agriculture, and infrastructure.