Resilience Rises: How Kapurthala's 'Tractor Army' is Reclaiming Flood-Hit Villages

In the wake of devastating floods that ravaged the 'mand' area of Kapurthala district, an extraordinary tale of community spirit and unwavering determination is unfolding. More than 14 villages, once submerged and choked with silt, are now witnessing a powerful resurgence thanks to the relentless efforts of local volunteers, armed with an impressive fleet of tractors and heavy machinery.

This inspiring grassroots movement, initiated by Baldev Singh Purewal, a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) from Canada, alongside the dedicated sevadars of Gurdwara Sahib Khera Bet, has transformed a landscape of despair into a beacon of hope.

What began as a desperate plea for government assistance, which unfortunately remained unanswered, quickly evolved into a powerful self-help mission that exemplifies the indomitable spirit of Punjab's rural communities.

The floods, triggered by a confluence of heavy rainfall and a change in the course of the Beas river, left behind a catastrophic legacy: agricultural lands buried under thick layers of sand and silt, drainage systems clogged, and the very livelihoods of villagers threatened.

For weeks, residents of villages like Khera Bet struggled with the aftermath, but rather than succumbing to helplessness, they decided to take matters into their own hands.

The initiative, which kicked off recently, is a monumental undertaking. A remarkable 'tractor army' of approximately 15 tractors, each pulling loaded trolleys, along with two powerful JCB machines, are working tirelessly.

The fuel for these machines, a significant expense, is generously contributed by the villagers themselves, highlighting their deep commitment to the cause. Volunteers from across the affected region are dedicating their time and physical labor, showcasing a collective resolve to restore their homes and lands.

"We realized that waiting for external help was not an option," explained a local volunteer, echoing the sentiment shared by many.

"Our fields are our life, and we had to act. This is our land, and we will clean it ourselves." The desilting work is crucial for two main reasons: firstly, it cleanses the fertile topsoil, making it viable for cultivation once again, and secondly, it restores natural drainage channels, significantly reducing the risk of future flooding.

The scale of the operation is immense, spanning across villages such as Khera Bet, Kamalpur, Mundi, and others in the hard-hit 'mand' belt.

The volunteers are not just moving silt; they are moving mountains of debris, meticulously clearing paths and preparing the ground for the next planting season. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites with a shared vision and an unbreakable will.

As the roar of tractor engines fills the air, it's not just the sound of machinery; it's the sound of hope, resilience, and a community actively rebuilding its future, one shovel-full of silt at a time.

The Kapurthala 'Tractor Army' is not just clearing fields; it's clearing a path to a brighter, more secure future for generations to come, proving that true strength often emerges from within.