In response to the ongoing crisis in Punjab, former Indian cricketer and Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh has taken action to provide relief to flood victims. His efforts encompass the deployment of essential resources like boats and ambulances, alongside fundraising initiatives through his personal and professional connections. Singh utilized his MPLAD fund to procure eight steamer boats, which are being utilized to bolster rescue and relief operations. He also personally funded the acquisition of three additional boats. Punjab has been severely impacted by recent flooding caused by consistent monsoon rainfall and breaches in riverbanks, leading to widespread displacement and destruction. Government bodies and volunteers are actively engaged in relief efforts, and certain areas are still submerged. A total of eleven steamer boats were donated by Harbhajan. Eight came from his MPLAD fund and three from his personal funds. Each boat cost between Rs 4.5 to Rs 5.5 lakh. He also arranged for three ambulances to transport severely ill patients to nearby hospitals. Apart from government support, Singh reached out to his contacts to secure assistance. A sports body contributed INR 30 lakh, while two of his personal friends donated INR 12 lakh and INR 6 lakh respectively. Approximately Rs 50 lakh has been collected and donated so far. Harbhajan, a Rajya Sabha member, has been overseeing the situation closely and has pledged continued assistance to facilitate recovery and rehabilitation in the affected regions.
