Centre must treat States as its younger brother: Dr. Balbir Singh reviews flood relief in Ferozepur
450 Rapid Response & 323 Mobile Medical Teams deployed in flood-hit areas: Health Minister
Harish Monga
Ferozepur, August 23, 2025: Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh visited flood-affected areas of Ferozepur on Saturday and reviewed the health services at the Civil Hospital. He inspected the wards, interacted with patients and doctors, and emphasised that no person in need should be left without medical care. He also suggested that NGOs should assist in the treatment and care of abandoned patients admitted in hospitals.
Addressing media persons, Dr. Balbir Singh said that the Punjab Government has deployed around 450 Rapid Response Teams and 323 Mobile Medical Teams in the flood-hit regions, equipped with doctors and essential medicines. Additionally, 172 ambulances have been deployed to ensure timely medical assistance. He informed that the recruitment process of 400 nurses has been completed, while 550 more nurses and 1,000 doctors will soon join government hospitals, which will provide round-the-clock health services across the State.
The Minister added that flood relief operations were launched from Kapurthala, one of the worst-affected districts, where dry rations, medicines, drinking water, and fodder for livestock are being supplied. A long-term action plan has also been prepared to mitigate future flood damage.
On being asked about the release of funds, Dr. Balbir Singh said, “Our priority is rescue and rehabilitation, followed by girdawari. The Centre should treat the States like its younger brother. Instead of only collecting data by sending teams, it should depute Union Ministers to visit the affected areas and provide ground-level feedback for announcing relief funds.”
MLAs Ranbir Singh Bhullar, Rajnish Kumar Dahiya, and Fauja Singh Sarari also accompanied him during the visit.