United Sikhs Mobilizes Relief Efforts Amid Punjab Flood Crisis

Heavy flooding in Punjab has prompted the United Sikhs, a U.S.-based advocacy group affiliated with the United Nations, to launch extensive relief operations. The organization began its efforts on August 13, 2025, shortly after floodwaters inundated agricultural fields in the Ferozepur district.

Amritpal Singh, a representative of United Sikhs in Punjab, is overseeing the relief activities, which now include camps in areas such as Ajanala, Dera Baba Nanak, Ramdas, Gurdaspur, and Ferozepur. Singh reported that thousands of families have been evacuated from marooned villages to safer locations, primarily Gurdwaras, Dharamshalas, and community centers.

“We have deployed nearly a dozen boats to assist with evacuations,” Singh stated. He noted that floodwaters have reached levels as high as 15 feet in some areas, complicating rescue efforts. Villagers have described the current situation as significantly worse than the floods experienced in 1988.

The organization is focused on immediate needs, including evacuation, medical assistance, and the provision of freshly cooked meals, known as langar. Volunteer Devinder Singh, working in Ferozepur, emphasized the urgency of these efforts.

“We are preparing for potential outbreaks of epidemics after the waters recede,” he explained. To mitigate these risks, United Sikhs has arranged for defogging machines to spray insecticides, preventing mosquito breeding.

Amritpal Singh highlighted that volunteers from United Sikhs across various countries have united for this cause. Many of the organization’s members are Sikhs and Punjabis motivated to assist communities in crisis.

“Punjab is always a top priority for us during natural disasters,” Singh added. The organization is also planning for long-term recovery. Once the floodwaters recede, they intend to support farmers with de-silting their agricultural lands, providing diesel and seeds for rabi crops.

As the situation in Punjab continues to develop, the commitment of United Sikhs and its volunteers underscores the urgency of humanitarian assistance in the face of this natural calamity.