As devastating floods continue to wreak havoc across northern India, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately announce a Special Relief Package for the affected states, particularly Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.

In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi said urgent intervention by the Centre was needed to support thousands of families struggling with the disaster.

“Modi Ji, the floods in Punjab have caused massive destruction. The situation in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand is also extremely worrying. In such difficult times, your attention and the active help of the central government are crucial. Thousands of families are trying to save their homes, lives, and loved ones. I urge you to announce a special relief package for these states, especially farmers, and expedite relief and rescue operations,” Gandhi wrote.

He also released a video message, stressing: “It is heartbreaking to see people fighting to protect their families. Modi Ji, it is the government’s responsibility to safeguard lives. I appeal to you to provide immediate assistance and arrange a Special Relief Package without delay.”

Meanwhile, the ground situation remains alarming. Heavy rainfall and cloudbursts have triggered flash floods across several northern states.

In Punjab alone, 29 people have lost their lives, while thousands have been displaced in what officials describe as the state’s worst flood in decades. Entire villages are under water, leaving rescue teams overwhelmed.

Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand have also witnessed flash floods and landslides, resulting in casualties, missing persons, and large-scale destruction. Himachal Pradesh has reported collapsed roads, damaged infrastructure, and snapped power lines, further compounding the crisis.