Mumbai: Bollywood actor Salman Khan has expressed deep concern over the devastation caused by heavy monsoon rains and floods across Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.
In the latest episode of Bigg Boss 19, Salman addressed the contestants about the crisis, drawing attention to the destruction and loss of livelihoods.
“Do you know what’s happening in Uttarakhand, Himachal, and now Punjab? Flood after flood, landslide after landslide—there is chaos everywhere. Our farmers, who grow food for us, have been left without homes, without crops, and even without grain to eat,” he said, highlighting the plight of affected communities.
Salman urged people to come forward and support flood victims. He reminded viewers of Punjab’s long-standing tradition of selfless service and said it was time to stand with them in their hour of need.
“This community is known for generosity, for langar, for service and sacrifice. For centuries, they have fed everyone who came to their kitchens. Now, when tragedy has struck them, it is our responsibility to stand by them. Many Punjabi artists have already extended help, and we too are contributing in every way possible,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Punjab’s flood-hit Gurdaspur district on September 9, the Punjab BJP announced on Sunday. During his visit, the PM will review rescue and relief operations and meet families affected by the disaster.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said nearly 2,000 villages and over four lakh people have been impacted. He added that 24 NDRF teams and two SDRF teams, along with 144 boats and a state government helicopter, are carrying out relief work.
The state Revenue Department has also released ₹71 crore towards ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts, Cheema confirmed.
