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Panjab Floods Relief 2019
The Impact of the 2019 Floods
In August 2019, Panjab faced one of its most devastating floods in recent history. Torrential rains of nearly 270 mm in 24 hours, according to the Indian Meteorological Department, combined with the sudden release of water from the Bhakra Nangal Dam, submerged villages and farmland across districts including Nawashahr and Balachaur. The floods destroyed acres of crops, wiped out livestock, damaged roads, bridges, and buildings, and created severe health risks as contaminated water spread disease.
By the end of August, more than 300 villages were left struggling for survival. For many families, their entire year’s harvest was gone. Their homes were gone. Their hope was gone.
And yet, amid this heartbreak, the spirit of Seva rose higher than the floodwaters.
Our Emergency Response
When disaster struck, SAF International stepped in with an emergency relief mission to support families in the hardest-hit areas. Our focus was clear: food, medical care, and long-term rebuilding.
With the support of Gurdwaras across British Columbia, including Gurdwara Sahib Sukh Sagar, Guru Nanak Sikh Temple, and Gurdwara Sahib Dashmesh Darbar, our community rallied together. Collectively, we raised $78,000, and with additional support, invested a total of $85,756 to bring relief to those in need.
Relief Efforts by the Numbers
- $65,000 on Food and Rations
- $16,256 on Reconstruction
- $2380 on Medical Supplies
- $2120 on Admin and Fuel Expenses
Incredible Sevadaars
Disasters often reveal the very best of humanity, and in 2019, the spirit of seva shone brightly across Panjab. Over 490 sevadars from 50 villages dedicated more than 2,300 hours to helping those in need.
They delivered dry rations to stranded families, repackaged food for efficient distribution, and provided over 150 mattresses to an impoverished Muslim community in Ropar whose homes had been destroyed. In Sultanpur Lodhi, they ran medical camps, where four volunteer doctors treated approximately 150 patients daily.
Continuing the Work
After the 2019 floods receded, many communities in Panjab still faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. SAF International remained committed to supporting those most affected, delivering aid and assistance as families recovered from the devastation.
Our efforts prioritized reconstructing homes, restoring livelihoods, and ensuring children could return to school despite the disruption caused by the floods. Each initiative was designed to help communities recover, rebuild their homes, and restore hope after the floods.
Ready to join the mission?
Help uplift communities, one donation at a time.
